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The Earl of Stirling
From AN engraving by William: Mars ha l.l .— P, 167.
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-f-
MEMORIALS
OF THE
EARL OF STIRLING
AND OF THE
HOUSE OF ALEXANDER
BY THE
Eev. chaeles kogers, lld.
HlfiTOBIOORJLPHBR TO THE ROYAL HISTORICAL SOCIETY; FELLOW OF "^E SOCIETY
OF ANTIQUARIES OF SCOTLAND; MEMBER OF THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY
OF QTTEBEC; AND CORRESPONDING MEMBER OF THE
HISTORICAL AND GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
OF NEW ENGLAND
VOL I.
EDINBUEGH
WILLIAM PATEESON, 67 PEINCES STEEET
1877
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KDINBUBQH :
PRINTED BY M'FARLANE AJiD EBSKINR
{late Schenck <(r M*Farlane\
ST JAMES SQUARE.
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C5
¥79
/<i77
TO
^ajor^Gnural aSiUtam ituxton €mdsi ^xaxCatt.
My dear Sm,
After a long and hononrable career in India,
in which you attained distinction, more especially as commander
of "Alexander's Horse" during the mutiny, you have been
privileged to retire from the perils and anxieties of military
servica Your desire to perpetuate the history and celebrate
the achievements of your ancestors and of the other members
of your House, has led to the production of these " Memorials ; "
for without your encouragement and substantial assistance, the
work would not have been proceeded with. Of the family of
Alexander in Ulster, which derives origin from the common
ancestors of the Scottish House, you are a senior representative.
That you may be spared to crown " a youth of labour by an age
of ease," is the wish and hope of.
My dear General,
Tour most obedient faithful servant,
CHARLES ROGERS.
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PREFACE
In preparing these ''Memorials/' the Author has
been less indebted to family papers and private
documents than to materials procured after a per-
severing search in the public archives. During a
period of nine years he has prosecuted his researches
in the public offices at London, Dublin, Edinburgh,
and elsewhere. In the course of several journeys
in central Scotland, and in the province of Ulster, he
has collected materials from district registers. What-
ever interest may attach to the work, he is conscious
that he has spared no exertion to eflfect its com-
pleteness, by securing the accuracy of its details.
The accounts of existing families have been revised
by competent persons belonging to each.
Respecting the career of Sir William Alexander
of Menstry, latterly Earl of Stirling, the Author has,
among other principal sources of information, been
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VI PKEFACK
mainly indebted to his "Register of Royal Letters."
That register embraces three folio volmnes, of which
two, containing transcripts of state documents from
February 1626 to June 1635 (with a blank from July
1627 to July 1630), are deposited in the Advocates
Library, while the third volume, containing tran-
scripts of letters from January 1626 to December
1631, is preserved in the General Register House.
The modem history of the volumes in the Advocates
Library is unknown. The volume in the Register
House came into the possession of William Trumbull
of East Hampstead, a lineal descendant of Lord Stir-
ling, who in December 1759 presented it with other
papers to Major William Alexander, the American
claimant of the title. Li a letter to Major Alexander,
Mr Trumbull describes it as " a book of Sir William
Alexander's correspondence, while he was Secretary
of State for Scotland."* The volume, which was
probably sent to London to be used in the House of
Lords in prosecuting Major Alexander's claim to the
peerage, came into the hands of Mr John Caley, who
in May 1792 presented it to Mr Thomas Astle, the
well-known archaeologist, who in December 1793
granted it, as an inscription bears, to Lord Frederick
* Duer's Life of Migor-General William Alexander, Earl of Stirling, p. 42.
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PKEFACE. Vll
Campbell, Lord Clerk Eegister, for preservation in
the Register House.
A history of the Scottish House of Alexander
would be incomplete without a narrative of the pro-
ceedings of Mr Alexander Humphrys or Alexander,
and his eldest son, as successive claimants of the
earldom of Stirling. A narrative of the case, drawn
up firom law papers and other documents, is presented
in the Appendix.
Among the very many persons to whom he has
been indebted for information, the Author may not
fail to record his special obligations to Major-General
Sir James Edward Alexander of Westerton ; Colonel
Boyd Alexander of Swifts; Alexander John Alex-
ander, Esq. of Woodbum, Kentucky ; Henry M. Alex-
ander, Esq., New York ; Henry Alexander, Esq. of
Forldll; Miss Jane Alexander, Fivemiletown, Tyrone;
and Joseph Alexander, Esq., Enniskillen. From
Archibald Campbell Swinton, Esq. of Kimmerghame,
he has obtained special assistance, both in matters
of pedigree and in the use of materials illustrative of
an important trial. To the late Rev. Robert Alex-
ander, rector of Aghadoey, county Londonderry, he
was indebted for many genealogical particulars.
For varied assistance he desires to name, with senti-
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Vlll PREFACE.
ments of esteem, his friend, Mr David Laing of
Edinburgh, whose acquaintance with ancient Scottish
lore is not more remarkable than is his desire to
render his information serviceable to others.
Grampian Lodge, Forest Hill, S.E.
December 1876.
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CONTENTS.
CHAPTEE I. PAOK
FAMILIES OF MACALEXANDER OF KINTYRE, ARGYLESHIRE,
AND ALEXANDER OF MENSTRY, CLACKMANNANSHIRE, . 1
CHAPTER II.
MEMOm OF SIR WILLIAM ALEXANDER OF MENSTRY — EARLY
HISTORY, 32
CHAPTER III.
MEMOIR OF SIR WILLIAM ALEXANDER OF MENSTRY — ORIGIN
AND EARLY HISTORY OF HIS CONNECTION WITH NEW
SCOTLAND, 58
CHAPTER IV.
MEMOIR OF SIR WILLLA.M ALEXANDER — FROM THE SAILING
OF HIS SECOND EXPEDITION TO NEW SCOTLAND TO THE
ABANDONMENT OF PORT ROYAL, 98
CHAPTER V.
BIEMOIR OF SIR WILLIAM ALEXANDER, VISCOUNT STIRLING
— FROM THE ABANDONMENT OF PORT ROYAL TO THE
COINING OF THE COPPER MONEY, . . . .130
CHAPTER VI.
MEMOIR OF SIR WILUAM ALEXANDER, EARL OF STIRLING —
FROM HIS LATEST ATTEMPT TO ESTABLISH A SCOTTISH
COLONY IN CANADA TO THE CLOSE OF HIS PUBLIC
ENTERPRISES, .157
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X CONTENTS.
CHAPTEE VII. PAGE
MEMOm OF THE EABL OF STIELING — HIS EMBARRASSMENTS,
DEATH, AND FUNERAL — HIS CHARACTER, . . . 176
CHAPTER VIIL
WILLIAM, LORD ALEXANDER, ELDEST SON OF THE EARL OF
STIRLING, AND THE DESCENDANTS OP HIS ELDER
DAUGHTER, CATHERINE, LADY TORPHICHEN : MENZIES
OF CASTLE MENZIES J AND SHIRREFF OP FTTZRAY, UPPER
CANADA, 205
CHAPTER IX.
MARGARET, LADY SINCLAIR, YOUNGER DAUGHTER OF WILLIAM,
LORD ALEXANDER, AND HER DESCENDANTS: HABilLTON
OF BARGANY, DALRYMPLE OF NORTH BERWICK, DUCHESS
DE COIGNY, KEITH OF RAVELSTONE, SIR PATRICK KEITH
ItfURRAY, BART., SWINTON OF THAT ILK, CAMPBELL
SWINTON OF KIMMERGHAMB, SIR WALTER SCOTT, BART.
OF ABBOTSFORD, AND SWINTON OF SWINTON BANK, . 212
CHAPTER X.
SIR ANTHONY ALEXANDER — HENRY, THIRD EARL OF STIR-
LING, AND HIS DESCENDANTS: FAMILIES OF PHILLIPS
LEE OF BINFIELD, AND TRUMBULL OF EAST HAMP-
STEAD; THE MARQUIS OF DOWNSHIRE, . . . 228
CHAPTER XL
YOUNGER CHILDREN OF SIR WILLIAM ALEXANDER, EARL OF
STIRLING : JEAN, VISCOUNTESS MONTGOMERY; MARGARET,
LADY MURRAY OF DUNEARN ; LADY ELIZABETH ALEX-
ANDER; LUDOVICK AND ROBERT ALEXANDER, AND JOHN,
CHARLES, AND JAMES ALEXANDER, AND THEIR DE-
SCENDANTS, 249
CHAPTER XII.
FAMILY OF SIR WALTER ALEXANDER, 259
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CONTENTS. XI
CHAPTER XIII. PAGE
FAMILIES OF ALEXANDER AT STIRLING, .... 268
CHAPTER XIV.
FAMILIES OF ALEXANDER IN MIDDLETON OF MENSTRY, AND
OF NEW JERSEY, UNITED STATES, .... 278
CHAPTER XV.
FAMILIES OF ALEXANDER OF WESTERTON OF MENSTRY, MAINS
OF MENSTRY, VILLAGE OF MENSTRY, BURNST0NE8 OF
MENSTRY, INCLONEY, LONGCARSE OF BLAIRLOGIE, MYRE-
SIDE OF MENSTRY, LOGIE, BLAIRLOGIE, WEST CAMBUS,
TULLIBODY, OVER GOGAR, ALVA, TILLICOULTRY, BAL-
HARTY, DOLLAR, AND ALLOA, 286
CHAPTER XVI.
FAMILIES OF ALEXANDER OF CLACKMANNAN AND KINCAR-
DINE-ON-FORTH, 297
CHAPTER XVII.
FAMILY OF ALEXANDER OF MANOR NEUK AND WESTERTON,
BRIDGE OF ALLAN, 303
CHAPTER XVIII.
FAMILIES OF ALEXANDER OF DRUMELDRIE, SKEDDOWAY,
INNERGELLIE, ANSTRUTHER, AND PITTENWEEM, FIFE-
SHIRE, 314
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ILLUSTEATIONS.
PAGE
PORTRAIT OF SIR WILLIAM ALEXANDER, EARL OF STIRLING,
(FrorUispiece.)
LETTER IN THE HANDWRITING OF THE EARL OF STIRLING, 1
ARMOIOAL ESCUTCHEON OF THE EARL OF STIRLING, . . 148
MANSION-HOUSE OF MENSTRY, 149
ARGYLB HOUSE, STIRLING, THE RESIDENCE OF THE EARL
OF STIRLING, 151
THE COIN "TURNER," ISSUED BY THE EARL OF STIRLING, . 155
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MEMORIALS
OF
THE EAEL OF STIRLING.
CHAPTER I.
FAMILIES OF MACALEXANDER OF KINTYRE, ARGYLESHIRE^
AND ALEXANDER OF MENSTRY^ CLACKMANNANSHIRE.
A NoRWEGL^ settlement was early established in
Arran and Bute, and other islands in the west of
Scotland. This settlement was effected under the
viking Conn Chead Chath of the Hundred Battles.
His descendant in the middle of the twelfth century
was the renowned Somerled, who exercised a power-
ful authority in the Western Isles, disputing the
sovereignty with David I. When, in 1135, David
expelled the Norwegians from Arran and Bute,
Somerled was allowed to retain a sort of depute
sovereignty in the subjugated territories. Subse-
quently rebelling, he in 1164 entered the Firth of
Clyde with a fleet of one hundred and sixty vessels,
intending to usurp the Scottish crown; he was de-
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2 MEMOBIALS OF THE EABL OF STIBLING.
feated at Itenfrew^ and there slain (Chron. Man.^ a.p.
1104-64).
Somerled was twice married. By his first wife he
had a son, Gillicolane, who fell with him at Eenfrew
(Chron. de Mebos, p. 74; Fordrai's Scotichron.,voL viii.,
cap. 2), He married, secondly, about the year 1140,
Eflfrica, daughter of Olave the Eed, King of Man, by
whom he had three sons, Dougal, Banald, and Angus.
On the death of their father, Dougal obtained as his^
share of sovereignty the islands of Mull, Coll, Tiree,
and Jura ; Banald, Isla and Elintyre ; and Angus, the
isle of Bute. From Dougal sprang the MacDougals
of Lome, who styled themselves De Ergedia, or, of
Argyle. His branch is represented by the Ducal
House of Argyle.
On the death of Dougal, the isles which he ruled,
instead of descending to his children, were acquired
by his brother Banald, to whom were bom two sons,
Donald and Boderick. Boderick was celebrated for
his piratical exploits. Donald, the elder son, who
claimed the sovereignty of the isles, was father of
three sons, Boderick, Angus, and Alexander. The
male descendants of Boderick became extinct in the
.third generation. Angus, the second son, sometime
resisted the arms of Alexander HI., but on the con-
quest of the Western Isles by that king, he transferred
his allegiance from Norway to the Scottish crown;
.he died subsequent to 1292. His grandson, John,
Lord of the Isles, married, as his second wife. Mar-
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MSMOSIALS OF THE EABL OF STIRLINQ. 8
garet^ daughter oif Robert 11. His third son, by this
marriage, Alexander, Lord of Lochaber, had two sons,
Angus and Alister or Alexander ; the latter founded
the House of MacAlexander, which, under the more
modem pame of Alexander^ forms the subject of
this work. In 1481 James IH. granted to Tarlach
MacAlexander the stewardry of the lands of Elintyre.
At the same time Tarlach received a grant of the
lands of Auchnaglek and Le Crag, in the barony of
Bar, North Kintyre (Beg. Mag. Sig., lib. x., 9). His
son, John Dubh MacAlexander, is mentioned in 1493
(Gregorjr's Western Highlands).
In 1515 James V. presented Sir Roderick M'Alis-
ter, chaplain, to the rectory of Kilquhoan, in Ardna-
murchan (R^. Sec. Sig., vol. v., fol 30). In 1545
and 1546 Sir Roderick, described as Dean of Morvem
and Bishop -elect of the Isles, was named by his
kinsman, Donald, Lord of the Isles, as one of two
conmiissioners appointed to treat with Henry VIII.
When the Lord of the Isles lay. with his army at
Garrickfergus, Sir Roderick seems to have resided
in Dublin, supported by the Privy Council of Eng-
]md (State Papers, vol iii., pp. 531, 533, 549-568 ; vol.
V,, pp. 477, 508). In 1547 he had a remission under
the privy seal of Queen Mary '^ for treasonably passing
to Ingland and Ireland, and inbringing of Inglismen
within the His and vthir partis within the realm, for
burning, heirschip, and destruction '' (Reg. Sec. Sig.,
vol xxi., foL 8). A tombstone in Ardchattan Priory,
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4 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
having in the centre the figure of a churchman in the
attitude of prayer, commemorates Sir Roderick by
the following inscription : " Hie iacet venerandus et
egregius vir Bodericus Alexandri rector quondam
Fynani Insule qui obiit anno Domini /'
The family of MacAlexander held their lands at
Tarbert, in Kintyre, under the protection of the Earls
of Argyle (Reg. Sec. Sig., vol v., fol. 45). In 1513
Colin, Earl of Argyle, granted to Neil Campbell
M'Alexander the lands of Glenscrow and Glenaray,
in the barony of Lochaw (Argyle Charters). Among
the witnesses to the sasine of a charter granted
in 1553 by Archibald, Master of Argyle, to Colin
Campbell of Dunstafihage, of the lands of Killechan,
are named Archibald M'Alexander, Malcolm M'Neill
M' Alexander, Donald M'Donche M' Alexander, and
Duncan, son of Donald M'Donche M'Alexander (Ar-
gyle Charters):
Angus, son of John Dubh MacAlexander, acquired
the lands of Loupe, Argyleshire (Collectanea de
Rebus Albanicis). This branch of the House attached
itself for about a century to the more powerftd clan
Ian Vor (Gregory's Western Highlands). Between
the years 1593 and 1604, the Tutor of Loupe granted a
bond of manrent to the Hous^ of Hamilton for himself
and his clan. The lands of Loupe remained in posses-
sion of the family till the beginning of the present
century, when they were sold by Colonel Somerville
Macalister, heir-male of the House (HilUs Macdoimels
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MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OP STIRLING. 5
of Antrim). The family of Loupe is represented by
Keith Macalister, Esq. of Glenbar and Com*, and
Alexander MacaUster, Esq. of Tangie.
A* descendant of Tarlach MacAlexander became
hereditary constable of the castle of Tarbert (Gre-
gory*s Western Highlands). On the 5th December
1627^ Gorrie Alexander, heir-apparent of Tarbert,
granted a bond in favom* of Archibald Alexander of
Tarbert, his father, whereby he disponed to him cer-
tain lands in the parish of Glassary ; and this, for the
security of the said Archibald, as cautioner for the
grantor in a contract with Hector Alexander and
Margaret Campbell, his spouse (G^n. Reg. of Deeds,
vol 474). On the 9th May 1636, Archibald Alex-
ander granted an obligation to Sir Dougal Campbell,
Bart of Auchinbrek, for eleven bolls teind meal,
Gk)rrie Alexander, younger of Tarbert, the granter's
son, being a witness (Reg. of Deeds, vol. 498). On
the 11th June 1636, Gorrie Alexander, younger of
Tarbert, granted to Matthew Colquhoun, merchant-
burgess of Glasgow, an obligation for *'aucht scoir
pundis borrowed money" (Reg. of Deeds, voL 506).
Sometime subsequently, the lands of Tarbert were
sold to the family of Campbell of Stonefield.
Prior to the year 1505, a descendant of Alister or
Alexander, younger son of the Lord of Lochaber,
obtained from the noble House of Argyle a portion
of lands at Menstry, in Clackmannanshire. In a
1^ instrument dated 6th March 1505, ''Thomas
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6 MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Alexander de Menstray" is associated with sixteen
others in an arbitration, coimected with the division
of forty acres of land in Clackmannanshire, about
which a dispute had arisen between the Abbot of
Cambuskenneth and Sir David Bruce of Clackmannan
(Chartulary of Cambuskenneth Abbey, p. 86). In 1631
Archibald Alexander of Tarbert acknowledged Sir
William Alexander, Viscount Stirling, as chief of the
clan Alister (see posted).
The lands of Menstry are situated at the southern
base of the Ochil Hills, and were in 1322 granted to
Dougal Campbell by Kling Robert the Bruce. In 1364
Robert Erskine of that ilk made a gift to Colin Camp-
bell, son of Archibald Campbell of Lochaw, of the
ward and marriage of the lands of Menstry, belonging
to the son and heir to John Campbell of Menstry.
The instrument of gift is dated the twentieth day after
the feast of St James, 1364 (Argyle Family Papers).
The lands of Menstry were, by Robert III., con-
veyed to Duncan Campbell, son of Colin Campbell,
on the resignation of the latter (Robertson's Index).
In 1494 Sir Duncan Campbell granted the lands of
Glenurquhay, in the barony of Lochaw, and the lands
of Menstry, Clackmannanshire, in warrandice for six-
teen merks in gold and silver, to be paid yearly for
the lands and castle of Campbell, Dollar, or Gloom, in
the barony of Dimkeld, which were granted by Bishop
George to Archibald, Earl of Ai^le (Athole Char-
ters ; Reg. Mag. Sig., lib. xiii., 278).
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BiEMOBIAU OF THE EARL OF SUBLING. 7
In 1404 Eobert, Duke of Albany, Earl of Fife
and Menteith, Gk)vemor of Scotland, granted to
Duncan Campbell of Lochaw, a charter of the lands
of Menstry, which had been resigned by Charles
Campbell into the hands of the governor of Stirling
Castle. This charter is dated at Stirling, 18th Janu-
ary 1404-5, the witnesses being Gilbert, Bishop of
Aberdeen, Chancellor of Scotland; John Stewart,
Earl of Buchan, son of the granter; Henry Percy,
Earl of Northumberland ; William Douglas of Lug-
town; Dougal and Donald Campbell, brothers-ger-
man ; Dougal of Quhonny ; and Andrew of Hawick,
rector of listoune, secretary to the governor (Argyle
Family Papers). On the 15th March 1413, James I.
granted a charter, under the Great Seal, to Duncan
Campbell of Lochaw, confirming him in the lands of
Menstry, on the resignation of Charles Campbell (Ar-
gyle Family Papers).
William Ale:icander, a relative of the original
settler at Menstry, acquired a farm on the adjacent
lands of Tullibody. On the 23d June 1518, Sir John
Crichton of Strathurd continued an action against
Sir Ninian Seton, along with fourteen of his tenants,
for withholding from him the '' malis and dewtis " of
the Mains of Tullibody. Among the tenants William
Alexander is named (Acta Dont Coa, vol xxxi,
foL 39).
Andrew Alexander, son of Thomas Alexander
.of Menstry, . succeeded his father in th6 lands of
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8 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OP STIRLING.
Menstry. He married Katherine Graham, by whom
he had two sons, Alexander and Andrew ; the latter
entered the Church, and in a sasine dated 15th Nov-
ember 1529, is styled " Andreas Alexander, presby-
ter.'' In a charter dated 8th April 1526, Colin, Earl
of Argyle, granted to Andrew Alexander and Katha-
rine Graham, his spouse, the lands of Menstry, in
liferent, and to Alexander Alexander, their son and
heir-apparent, in fee (Papers in Menstry Charter
Chest). Andrew Alexander of Menstry died prior
to 1527, and was succeeded by Alexander Alex-
ander, his eldest son. On his succession, Alexander
Alexander surrendered the lands of Menstry to
Colin, Earl of Argyle, who took sasine of the same
in February 1527 (Argyle Family Papers). In a
sasine of Colin, Earl of Argyle, in 1529, Alexander
Alexander is appointed bailie on the earFs estate in
Clackmannanshire; he is designed '' honorabilis vir
Alexander Alsynder de Menstrie." A charter by
James V., dated Stirling, 20th April 1530, confirms,
first, a charter of gift of fee-faxm, made by Archibald
Campbell, lord of the fee of the earldom of Argyle,
and Colin Campbell, his father, earl and lord of the
said earldom, and master of the household to the
king, to Alexander Alsynder and Elizabeth Douglas,
his spouse, and the longer liver of them in liferent,
and Andrew Alsynder, their son and heir-apparent,
in fee, of the five-pound land of old extent called the
Mains of Menstry, with the mill and bog of Menstry,
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 9
in the sheriffdom of Clackmannan, for an annual pay-
ment of 24 bolls com, 24 bolls barley malt, 24 bolls
oatmeal, etc. It confirms, secondly, a charter by
Archibald, Earl of Argyle, to his well-beloved servitor
Alexander Alsynder of Menstry, of the five-merk
land of Dusletter, which umquhil Andrew Alsynder,
his father, and Katherine Graham, his mother, for-
merly aUenated, lying in the lordship of Menteith and
sheriffdom of Perth, to be held of the said earl and
his successors in fee and heritage for ever, on the
annual payment of one penny (Beg. Mag. Sig.^ lib.
xxiii, 19 ; Heg. Sec. Sig., vol. viii., foL 193).
Alexander Alexander married Elizabeth, daughter
of Sir Robert Douglas of Lochleven, ancestor of the
Earls of Morton, by whom he had two sons, Andrew
and William, and two daughters, Marion and Isabel.
Marion Alexander married Alexander Murray of
Woodend, parish of Madderty, Perthshire ; she died
in January 1595, leaving three children, John, Wil-
liam, and Agnes. Her testament-dative was adminis-
tered by her husband, who valued her free estate at
£1118, 6s. 8d. Scots; Henry Murray, burgess of
Stirling, was cautioner in the administration (Edin.
CJom. Bsg., voL xxxi.).*
Isabel, second daughter of Alexander Alexander of
Menstry, married James Muschet of Bumbank, Stir-
lingshire. '' George Muschet de Bumbank," son and
* The Rev. Bobert Murray, of the family of Woodend, was a principal credit
tor of the Earl of. Stirling ; he obtained the estate of Menstry, by foreclosing a
mortgagSy subsequent to the earl's decease.
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10 MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OP STIRLING;
heir of James Muschet, is named in the Protocol
Book of Gilbert Grote, 1552-73. John Muschet,
notary-public in Stirling, 1586-93, was another son
(Protocol Books in Register House, No. 44).
Alexander Muschet in Menstry was probably a
younger son of James Muschet and Isabel Alexander.
He married Margaret Forrester, whose brother, ''David
Forrester in Logie," was husband of Janet Alexander,
third daughter of Alexander Alexander of Menstry
(see postea). Margaret Forrester or Alexander died in
September 1613 ; her inventory wbs valued at £160
Scots. Her husband, Alexander Muschet, died in
February 1616. In his will he nominates ''Andrew
Alexander in Stirling," as administrator of his affairs
and residuary legatee. Among his debtors is named
William Alexander in Middleton of Menstry (Stirling
Com. Reg.).
David Muschet of Calziehall, grandson of James
Muschet and Isabel Alexander, was, along with Sir
William Alexander of Menstry, admitted a burgess of
Stirling, on the 9th September 1615 (Burgh Records
of Stirling). Sir George Muschet, in November 1620,
obtained sasine of the lands of Torrie (Reg. of Sasines).
George Muschet, another descendant of James
Muschet and Isabel Alexander, was licensed by the
Presbytery of Stirling in April 1606, and in 1610 was
appointed minister of Dunning, Perthshire. He was
deprived of his charge prior to the 14th May 1661,
and died in May 1663, aged about eighty (Fasti
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 11
EccL Scot, vol ii., p. 757). Among other descend-
ants were Adam Muschet, son of James Muschet
of Bnmbank, who, in 1651, was admitted a burgess
and guild-brother of Stirling (Guildry Records of
Stirling); Archibald Muschet, successively minister
of Gargunnock, Larbert, and Falkirk, who died in
1690 ; and John Muschet, minister of Stirling, who
died 22d April 1793. The family of Muschet is now
represented by John S. Muschet, M.D., of Birkhill,
Stirlingshire, grandson of the Bey. John Muschet,
minister of Stirling.
WiUiam Alexander, second son of Alexander Alex-
ander of Menstry, received, on the 27th May 1557,
a charter, under the Great Seal, confirming the two
following charters, viz. :
" A charter of vendition made by William Murray of Tully-
bardine to William Alexander and Jonet Merschell his spouse
and the longer liver of them in conjunct fee and their heirs^
whom £Edling to the heirs and assignees whomsoev^ of the said
William of the half of the said William Murray's lands of Clow
which the foresaid William and Jonet occupied & had in lease
of the said William Murray the 23 of May 1542 lying in the
barony of TuUybardine and sheriffdom of Perth, to be held of
the said William Murray in fee & heritage for ever, paying
therefor one penny. Dated at Petuor 23 May 1542. Among
the witnesses are Alexander Alexander in Menstrie Schir Wil-
liam Alexschinder &c. And 2^ charter and gift made by the
said William Murray to the said William Alexander and Jonet
Merschell his spouse in liferent, and Adam Alexander eldest
son of the said William & his heirs whomsoever in fee of a half
of the foresaid lands of Clow lying within the barony of Qlen-
cqy and sheriiSfdom of Perth which formerly belonged to the
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12 MEMORIALS OP THE EABL OP STIRLING.
said William and Janet in conjunct fee, and were resigned by
them in the hands of the said William Murray of Tullybardine
as superior for new infefbment thereofl To be held of the said
William Murray — ^paying therefor one penny. Dated at the
place of Blairingon li August 1553 " (Eeg. Mag. Sig., lib, xxxi.^
No. 406).
A descendant of William Alexander of Clow, John
Alexander in Coull of Monzie, Perthshire, died in
August 1671. In his will, recorded in the Commis-
sariat Register of Dunblane, on the 24th October
1672, he 'mentions his wife, Jean Gray; and instructs
that his estate should be divided among the children
of " umquhil Alexander Alexander, his eldest son,"
and his own sons, Patrick, Alister, James, and
Donald. He refers to his son Patrick as resident in
Leith. He appoints Alexander Alexander in Curti-
vacher, as one of the overseers for the execution of
his will. His stocking is, in the inventory, valued at
£223, 16s. 8d. Scots. John Alexander, merchant in
Crieflf, a probable descendant of John Alexander of
Coull, was served heir to his father, John Alexander,
feuar in CrieflF, on the 29th November 1780 (General
Register of Sasines).
Andrew Alexander, elder son of Alexander Alex-
ander of Menstry, succeeded to the patrimonial
estate in 1544 (Douglas's Peerage). He died soon
after his father, leaving two sons, Alexander and
John; he was succeeded by his son Alexander.
Alexander Alexander is described as a witness, with
his grandfather, Alexander Alexander of Menstry, to
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MEM0BIAU3 OF THE EARL OF STIRLINa 18
a sasine, dated 19th April 1541, in favour of Archi-
bald, Earl of Argyle, proceeding upon a charter from
King James V., wherein the lands of Menstry, Dus-
letter, Pannols, Little Saline, and others, are erected
into a barony, called the barony of Menstry, and
wherein he is designed '' Alexander Alscinder, junior."
He acted as attorney for the Earl of Argyle to another
sasine of the barony of Menstry, dated 31st October
1542, with his brother John (Sasines in possession of
Duke of Argyle).
John, second son of Andrew Alexander of Menstry,
is named in the Earl of Argyle's sasine of April 1541,
and in a sasine of Colin, Earl of Ai^le, in October
1572 (Douglases Peerage).
In an agreement, dated 22d December 1547, be-
tween John, Bishop of Dunkeld, and^ Donald, Abbot
of Cowper, one of the cautioners for the abbot is
''Alexander Alschinder of Menstrie" (Acta Dom.
Coa, vol xxvi., foL 32).
Alexander Alexander of Menstry died between the
14th February 1564 and 6th January 1565. His will
not having been produced, his representatives and
executors were summoned before the Commissary
Court at Edinburgh to answer for neglect. The
record of that Court contains the following narra-
tive:
"At Edinburgh the sext day of Junij 1564 The quhilk day
anent the edict rasit at the instance of oure souerane ladeis pro-
coratour fischals aganis the execntouris and intromettouris with
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14 MEMOBIALS OF THE EABL OF STIBLIKa
the gudia and geir of ymqulule Alexander Alschonder in Men-
strie Elizabeth Forbes his spous Margaret Crumby spous to
Dauid Balfonre of the povis John Hendirsoon in the Myddil-
toun of Athra Cristie M^Calpy in Pendreith Walter Kobe thair
Bobert Bow zonnger in Athra Cuthbert Gibsoun sone to ymqu-
lule Ai^ Gibsoun Jonet Erskin spous to vmquhile Alexander
Bruce of the hauch of Arth nudster Thomas Bruce of Ledbert-
schelis maister Alexander Levingstoun of Donipace and Patrik
Thomsoun in romannois summonand thame to compeir befoir
the saidis commissaris at ane certane day and all vtheris
havand interes to heir and se executouris datiuis be gevin and
confirmit in and to and sindrie sowmes of money gudis geir
and actionis quhatsumeuir quhilkis pertenit to the saidis vmqu-
hile personis the tyme of thair deceis or ellis to schaw ane res-
sonable cans quhy &c, as at mair lenth is contenit in the
edict rasit thairupon Maister Henrie Eanros procuratoure
fischale to our souerane lady being personally present and the
executoris intromittors and uth^ intromittors fomamed being
lawfullie summoned to this day to the effect above written.
'' Comperit : William Alschinder son lawful to the said um-
quhil Alexander and allegit that he befoir his deceis maid
testament and constitut him his executour tharein and that
tharfoir no datives sud be given and producit the said umqu-
hile Alexander's testament of the dead 14th day of Februar
1564 — ^the said Maister Henrie protested quoad omissa et male
appredata contenit thairin"" (Edinburgh Commissariat Decreets).
Alexander Alexander of Menstry was, by his wife,
Elizabeth Forbes, father of three sons, William, James,
and John, and three daughters, Elizabeth, Marion,
and Janet. Elizabeth Alexander, the eldest daughter,
married John Leishman, merchant-burgess of Stirling.
She is mentioned in the will of her nephew, Alex-
itnder Alexander of Menstry, as, with her two
brothers James and John, an executor on his estate.
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MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OF STIRLINa. 15
Her husband died some time previous to the 11th
July 1590, when she is described in the Protocol Book
of John Muschet, notary-public in Stirling, as rehct
of the late John Leishman, burgess of the burgh.
The instrument in which she is so described grants
her infeftment in a portion of land within the burgh,
and near the Queenshaugh, which belonged to the
kte Duncan Forrester of Amgibbon. Among the
'witnesses are her nephews, Archibald and Andrew
Alschunder, burgesses of Stirling (Protocol Book of
John Muschet in the General Eegister House).
Elizabeth Alexander or Leishman died in February
1607. Her will, dated at Stirling on the 5th Feb-
ruary 1607, appoints as her executors Janet Leish-
man, her daughter, and Bessie Forrester, wife of
John Forrester, Dunoon. She bequeaths 400 merks
to Andrew Alexander, son of her brother James, and
100 merks to the " puir " of Stirlmg. Her inventory
was ''given up by herself in presence of James Alex-
ander, sumtyme tutor of Menstrie, her brother ; John
Stirling, brother to Henry Stirling of Ardoch; and
Andrew Alexander, her brother's son." Among her
debtors are the Laird of Airth, the Laird of Polmaise,
the Laird of Cromlix, the Laird of Elphington, the
Laird of Clackmannan, the Lord of Dirleton, and
umquhil John Hog, servitor to my Lord of Mar
(Edinburgh Commissariat Eecord).
Marion, second daughter of Alexander Alexander,
married, on the 10th August 1589, Duncan Paterson,
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16 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OP STIRLING.
maltman and burgess of Stirling (Kirk Session Be-
cords of Stirling). In October 1592 Duncan Pater-
son was elected Dean of Guild of Stirling^ an office
then of higher status than that of chief magistrate
(Records of Stirling Guildry).
Janet^ third daughter of Alexander Alexander of
Menstry> married David Forrester in Logic, one of
several brothers whose names are associated with
the House of Menstry. In January 1590, David
Forrester in Logic, and Janet Alshinder, his spouse,
had a daughter baptized, called Agnes, the witnesses
being John Forrester, son to Alexander Forrester of
(Jarden, Archibald Alexander, merchant, and John
Paterson, merchant (Kirk Session Records of Stir-
ling).
John, third son of Alexander Alexander, was por-
tioner of Pitgogar, parish of Muckhart, Perthshire.
La the will of Alexander Alexander of Menstry, his
nephew (see postea), he was nominated one of his
executors, and appointed sole administrator of his
gudes and geir (Edin. Com. Reg., 5th February
1580). He died in November 1595. Li his will he
mentions his wife, Margaret Dempsterton, and his
sons, William and Robert, all of whom are named
as his executors. He mentions his servant, David
Alexander. In his " Liventory," the Earl of Ai^le
is named as '' master of the grand," and as receiving
for " the farme of Pitgover aucht boUis ane furlot beir,
and twa bollis ane peck meilL" The balance of his
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 17
"free gear" is stated at £1887, 13a 8d. Scots (Edin.
Com. Reg., 25th February 1596).
In a charter of apprising of the lands of Sauchie,
Clackmannanshire, and others, by Sir William Alex-
ander of Menstry, dated 25th May 1609, Gavin Alex-
ander of Pitgover is named on the inquest of appris-
ing (Reg. Mag. Sig., lib. i.. No. 185, fol. 134).
Janet Alexander, a daughter of Gavin Alexander,
and wife of Paton, died at Cowdoun, in the
parish of Muckhart, Perthshire, in July 1643. In
her will, recorded in the Commissariat Register of
Stirlingshire, she names as her executors her son,
Edward Paton, and her son-in-law, James Dempster-
ton. The Marquis of Argyle is mentioned as owner
of the farm ; and John Alexander of Pitgogar, who
subscribes the will as a witness, is named as a debtor.
James Alexander in Linbank is also a debtor.
The personal estate of the deceased is valued at
£1637, 6s; 8d. Scots.
In 1719 William Hutton and Catherine Alexander
in Easter Pitgogar had a daughter, Margaret, baptized
(Muckhart Baptismal Register).
A descendant of the family of Pitgogar, Adam
Alexander in Easter Balendine, parish of Muckhart,
died in January 1625. In his will his farm is de-
scribed as rented from the Earl of Argyle. His wife,
Agnes Murray, and his three children, WiUiam,
Adam, and Margaret, are named as his executors.
His personal estate is valued at £400 Scots (Stirling
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18 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Com. Reg., November 1625). In the Baptismal
Register of Muckhart, Thomas Alexander of Balen-
dme is mentioned as having three daughters baptized,
viz., Janet, in January 1730 ; Katherine, in Septem-
ber 1734; and Isobel, in April 1737. In the same
Register are named James Alexander of Ridderie,
who had a son, Thomas, baptized 31st March 1706 ;
James Alexander in Blairhill, who had a son, David,
baptized 10th November 1706; Andrew Alexander
in Blairhill, who had a son, Gavin, baptized 21st
September 1707; James Alexander in Middleton,
who had a son, John, baptized 13th June 1708 ; and
Robert Alexander in Over Blairhill, who had a son,
James, baptized 6th June 1732. Their descendants
cannot be traced.
A descendant of the House of Pitgogar, Alexander
Alexander, was, on the 17th March 1647, served heir
to Susan Alexander, wife of James Paton, burgess in
Perth, daughter of his father's brother (Gen. Retours,
xix. 32).
James, second son of Alexander Alexander of
Menstry, received, on the 7th October 1582, from
John, Earl of Mar, a charter of an annual rent
of 100 merks Scots, "fiirth of the lands of Lang-
carse, in the barony of Alloway, and shire of Clack-
mannan." This charter was confirmed under the'
Great Seal on the 30th May 1584 (Reg. Mag. Sig.,
lib. XXXV., No. 929). In the charter of confirma-
tion he is styled ''James Alschunder in Menstrie."
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING; 19
On the 9th November 1586, he is in another instru-
ment described as a merchant -burgess of Stirling
(Register of Deeds, vol. xxi., 201ft). In his will,
dated 5th February 1580, his nephew, Alexander
Alexander of Menstry, entrusted his children to his
care, and he was thereafter generally described as
'' tutor of Menstry."
Against James Alexander, ''burges of Striveling,"
an action was brought, before the Lords of Council
and Session, by Ninian Lowis, merchant-burgess of
Edinburgh, and Elizabeth Thomson, his spouse, on
the plea that he had been cautioner for Walter limes
of Iimerbrakie for payment of fifteen bolls of bear, '' as
for the half fermes of the tua pairt landis of Ballin-
gall, in the parish of Tain, and sheriffdom of Inver-
ness," which cautionary he had refused to fulfil On
the 10th August 1587, the Lords decreed the obliga-
tion to be registered (Register of Deeds, vol. xxv.,
foL 201).
In the warrant of the marriage of his niece. Chris-
tian Alexander, to Walter Neische, in September 1592,
James Alexander is described as giving consent as
"her speciall Mend'* (Kirk Session Records of
Stirling).
William Alexander, eldest son of Alexander Alex-
ander of Menstry, was father of three sons, Alexander,
Archibald, and Andrew, and of two daughters, Janet
and Elizabeth.
Janet, elder daughter of William Alexajider of
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20 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Menstry, married John Bume. On the 15th June
1587, John Bume and his wife, Janet Alexander, had
a daughter baptized named Elizabeth, the witnesses
being "James Alexander, tutor of Menstrie," and
Archibald Alexander (Stirling Baptismal Register),
Elizabeth, younger daughter of William Alexander
of Menstry, married Alexander Barclay, notary-public
in Stirling ; she died in March 1622. Their only son,
William Barclay, was, by royal warrant, dated at
Whitehall, 18th January 1634, constituted " receiver
of duties on exports " (Sir William Alexander's Regis-
ter of Letters).
The inventory of the effects of Mrs Elizabeth Bar-
clay or Alexander was given up by her husband on
behalf of William Barclay, ''her only bairn;" he
''granted him to have in gudes and geirs, and by the
executors of umquhil Robert Graham of Grartmore,
the sum of 400 merks of annual rent " (C!om. Reg. of
StirUng, 24th April 1623).
William Barclay became town-clerk of Stirling;
he died prior to the 22d January 1676, when Alex-
ander Barclay, his eldest lawful son, was admitted a
burgess (Town Council Records).
Archibald, second son of William Alexander of
Menstry, was a merchant in Stirling. He married,
in 1589, Elizabeth, daughter of Robert Alexander,
burgess of Stirling. The following entry in the kirk
session records of Stirling respecting his contract of
marriage, is curious :
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MEMOEIALS OF THE EAKL OF STIRLING. 21
"At Sterling ye vii day of Junij 1589 in pre of me James
Dnncanson, Eeider in Sterling. The qlk day compeirit peraon-
allie Archibauld Alexander broy [brother] to nmqu^ Alexander
Alshunder of Menstrie on ye ane part and Elizabeth Alexander
dochter to Robert Alexander, Surges of Sterling on ye uthjnr
part, quha bayth in ane voyce granted mutuaJl promeis of marri-
age is maid be yaim ilk ane to uthyr and promisis to compleit ye
saim (Jod willing betwixt and ye firat day of August next to
cum undir ye paine conteinit ia ye Acts of ye Generall Assemblie
and therfor desyrit ye said promeis to be law^ proclaimit in ye
paroche kirk according to ye order, qlk I ye said Beider promisit
to do, and in ye name of ye kirk admonischet bayth ye said
parties to abstein fr^ camaU daill', qlk untill ye completing of
ye said marriage undir ye pain conteinit in ye Act of Parliament
made anent fomicatoris. And that they and their companies
abstein fra all publict dansein and playein in ye gaitts of ye
burgh on ye day of y' marriage undir ye paine of 10 lib money.
And for sure keiping of ye promeis for bayth ye said parties and
y' companeis, Archibauld Allan consentit to be y' cautioner and
securitie. In witness hereof baith ye said parties and cautionaris
hes subscryvit ye presentis with their handis as foUowes, day,
year, and place aforesaid — Archibald Allan. Archibald Alsch-
under, w* my own hand. I Elizabeth Alexander w* my hand at
ye place of ye underwritten. Sic sub: Jacobus Duncanson,
Not"" Pub*" manu propria, J. Duncanson."
At the period of his marriage, and subsequently,
Archibald Alexander was connected both with the
burghs of Stirling and Dunfermline. As witness to a
baptism, which took place at Stirling in January 1590,
he is described as a merchant in that burgh (Kirk
Session Eecords); and on the 27th December 1591, he
is styled '' one of the bailies of Dunfermline " (Stir-
ling Burgh Register of Sasines). He was placed on
the Council of the Dean of Guild of Stu-ling m October
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22 • MEMORIAL^ OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
1592, an appointment renewed in several successive
years. In October 1593 he is described as one of the
bailies of the burgh (Stirling Guildry Records). In
1599 he was elected Dean of Guild. He was, with
another, sent as one of the burgh commissioners to
Parliament in 1600. In a minute of the town council,
dated 26th June 1601, he is appointed commissioner
to the '' Conventioune of Burrowis to be halden at
Sanct Androis." His name appears on the roll of the
Convention, which was held at St Andrews on the
30th June of the same year (Records of Conven-
tion). On the 31st August he was returned to the
'' Conventioune of the Nobilitie and Estaittis of this
Realme, to be held at Perth on the 10th September."
In 1604 the magistrates and council ordained that he
should be refunded in the '' soume of six score pund
borrowed by them." He was returned to the Conven-
tion of Estates in May 1605, and in August of the
same year, and again in 1606, was sent as commis-
sioner to the Convention of Burghs (Town Council
Records). In 1605 he again appears on the Council
of the Dean of Guild (Guildry Records).
Archibald Alexander died on the 13th September
1621. His will, dated 13th April 1621, was confirmed
by the commissary of Edinburgh. In this document
he mentions James Alexander as his 'Mawful son"
(Edin. Commissariat Register).
By his marriage with Elizabeth Alexander, daughter
of Robert Alexander, burgess of Stirling, Archibald
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 23
Alexander was father of a son, James, and a daughter,
Elizabeth. Elizabeth was baptized in March 1590,
Christopher Alexander being one of the witnesses
(Stirling Baptismal Register).
James Alexander, only son of Archibald Alexander
and Elizabeth Alexander, was baptized at Stirling on
the 23d December 1591, the witnesses being Anthony
Bruce, bailie, Malcolm Wallace, James Alexander in
Menstry, John Stirling, and Patrick Kinross (Kirk
Session Records of Stirling).
Through the influence of Sir William Alexander of
Menstry, his cousin-german, James Alexander ob-
tained in July 1617 a royal letter, conferring upon
him and his heirs the penalty inflicted by Parliament
on persons who removed wool from sheep by '' pull-
ing " instead of '' clipping " it. The royal letter is
subjoined :
''Ane letter maid to James Alexander^ lawful sone to umq^
Archibald Alexander, burges of Stirling, his airs and assignays
and ane or mae of the gift of ye paine and soume of four schil-
lings money of this realme of Scotland incurrit or to be incurrit
be ye persone or persones contraveining for every scheip puUit
against the intent and meaning of ane act & statute maid be the
lordis of his majesties privie counseill of the said kingdome of
Scotlande, at his majesties comand and discretioun upon the
auchtene day of Marche last bypast whereby it is statute and
ordainit that none of our souverane lordis leiges sould pre-
sume nor tak upon hand at onie tyme efter the publication
thairof to pluck or pull the wool of their scheip, nor to suflfer the
same to be pluckit or puUit be thair directioime or allowance.
Bot that they sould clip the said wool with scheiris as is usit in
the civil pairts of the cuntry under the said paine of four
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24 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
schillings money foresaid to be incunit be the persone or per-
sones contraveinan for every scheip that sould be pullit t^ainst
the intent and meaning of ye said act as the samyn in itself at
mair length beirs. With full power to the said James Alexander
and his foresaids to ask receive, intromitt with and uptak the
said paine and soome of 4 schillings money fra the persone or
persones contraveining for every scheip alreadie pullit or to be
pullit against the intent and meaning of the said act, and to use
and dispone thereupon at their pleasure freely, gentlie, weill and
in peace, but onie revocation, obstacle, or again calling quhat-
somever. At Falkland the 4"* day of Julii the zeir of God 1617 "
(Keg. Secreti Sigilli, lib. Ixxxv., p. 339).
On the 9th September 1623, James Alexander was
entered a burgess of Stirling '' as air of umq^ Archi-
bald Alexander, his father " (Town Council Records).
On the 19th February 1624, he was incorporated as a
member of the guildry. In 1628, and in 1630, he was
placed on the Dean's Coimcil (Guildry Records). As
'' James Alexander, merchand," he is named on the
roll of the town council on the 23d September 1633 ;
also on the 9th November 1636 (Town Council Re-
cords).
On the 1st July 1634, James Alexander, '' merchant-
burgess of Stirling," granted to Alexandey Barclay,
'' writer-burgess of the said burgh," an obligation for
400 merks (Register of Deeds, vol. 483). On the
30th October of the same year, he granted to Andrew
Purves, merchant in Edinburgh, a bond for £600
(Register of Deeds, vol. 483).
Andrew Alexander, third son of William Alex-
ander of Menstry, is, in the Protocol Book of John
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 25
Muschet, notary-public in Stirling, described in an
instrument conveying property to Mrs John Leish-
man, as ''brother of Archibald Alexander;" he is
also so described in a sasine dated 1st April 1606
(Protocol Book in Register House, No. 44, and Stir-
ling Register of Sasines).
In the General Register of Deeds (voL 374, 16th
June 1625) a contract is recorded, in which Sir
William Alexander of Menstry consents to infeft
certain persons in an annual rent of the lands of
Tillicoultry, '' with consent of Andi'o Alexander, his
father's brother." The contract is dated at Green-
wich and Stirling, 25th June and 15th July 1623.
In 1639 Andrew Alexander is named as subscribing
a commission to the dean of guild and the deacon-
convener of the trades, to meet at Edinburgh with the
commissioners of other burghs (Stirling Burgh Re-
cords). On the 23d August 1633, '' John Alexander,
son to Andrew Alexander, indweller in Stirling," was
admitted a burgess of Stirling along with '' Charles
Alexander, son to the Earl of Stirling" (Burgh Re-
cords of Stirling). Among those who, on the 6th
December 1664, were placed on '' the inquest " for
determining the laws as to the price of provisions, is
'' John Alexander in Powis."
Alexander Alexander, only son of William Alex-
ander of Menstry, succeeded his father in the patri-
monial estate. He died on the 10th February 1580.
The following is his inventory and will, as proved in
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26 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
the commissaiy court of Edinburgh, on the 24th May
1581:
" The testament, testamentar, and inventar of ye gudis geir,
soumes of money and debtis pertaineng to umq" Alex Alschun-
der of Menstiie, within the sherifdome of Clackmannan, ye tyme
of his deceis, quha deceisit upoun ye tent day of Februar, the
zeir of God 1580 zeirs faithfully maid and given up be himself
upoun the fyft day of Februar the zeir of God foresaid befoir thir
witnesses, John Duncanson in Logie, John Drysdale, servitor to
the said Alexander, John Stalker in Menstrie, Wm. Alex' thair,
Gilbert Custoun thair, Andro Games, burges of Striveling,
John Laurie of Holtoun and James Oswald notaries publict
with utheris divers.
" In the first the said umq^ Alex Alschinder of Menstrie had
the guidis, geir, soumes of money and dettis of the value and
prices after following pertaining to him at the tjrme of his deceis
foresaid — Item, standand in the barn and barn yard of the Mains
of Menstrie of beir seven stackis, estimat in the hail to Ixxx
bollis beir, price of the boll with ye fodder 3 lib vjs viiid sum-
ma 400 merks. Item, mair in ye said bam and bam yard
Ixxvi bollis aittis, price of ye boll with ye foddir xls, summa
£152. Item, of meill in ye gimaUes 32 bollis meill price of ye
boll 55s, summa £80. Item, of peis 6 bollis, price of ye boll
with the foddir £3 6 8 summa £20. Item, thre drawine oxin
by th airschip price of ye peis oure heid x merkes — summa
£20. Item xvi ky thairof vii forrow ky and ix new calfit ky,
price of ye peis oure heid £5 summa £80. Item, mair x queyok
and stottis of ane zeir auld, price of the peis oure heid xl shil-
lins summa xx libs. Item, ane bull of twa zeir auld price
thairof xl shillins. Item foure auld wark horses and ane
meir, price of ye peis oure heid vi pounds summa 25 pounds.
Item, 25 wedder shep and 35 youis, price of the peis oure heid
20 shillings summa 80 pounds. Item, mair 20 young sheip of
ane zeir auld price oure heid 13/4, summa £13 6 8^. Item, in
utensils and domicils, with the abulzements of his body by the
airschip estimat to the soum of £26 13 4^, summa of ye Tnven-
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 27
tar £785 13 4**. — The dettis awand to ye deid. Item, there wes
awand to ye said tunq^ Alex Alschinder of Menstrie be William
Graham of Gartavestan his brothir in the law th soum of 400
merkis money restand of the soum of eight hundred merkis of
J;ocher contractit to the said umq^ Alex' with Marion Graham
his spouse in the Contract of Marriage for the whilk soume, also
the said William Graham is becom actit in the Commissary
Bakes of Striveling as the Act made thireupon beirs. Item,
awand be John Stalker in Menstrie for his farme of this instant
crop in anno aughty zeirs 8 bollis beir price of ye boll 5 merkis
— summa 40 merkis. Item, awand be John Mains in Menstrie
six bollis beir of this instant crop price of the boll £3 6 8^,
summa £20.
'' Item, awand be the tenants of the barony of Multer beir to
th mylne 5 bollis, price of ye boll £3 8 6* summa £16 13 4*,
Summa of the dettis awand to the deid £330 summa of the In-
ventar with th dettis £1115 13 4^.
" FoUowis the dettis awand be the deid.
" Item, there was awand be th said umq* Alex Alschinder of
Menstrie to my Lord of Argyle, Master of ye grand, for his
Lordship's fermes of ye grund in anno 1580 24 bollis ferme
quheat, price of ye boll £4 summa £96. Item, mair to him 24
bollis ferme beir, price £3 6 8^ summa £80. Item, mair to him
24 bollis ferme mele, price of ye boll 50s, summa £60. Item,
awand to James Alschimder, father brother to the defunct the
soum of 300 merkis now restand awand to his said father's brother
of ane greater soume as ane obligation actit in the Bukes of
Council beirs. Item, awand to Margaret Alschinder the soum
of an hundred merkis money, which should be paid at Whit-
sunday cum ane zeir as the obligation beirs. Item, to the said
Elizabeth Alschinder of lent money the sum of 20 pundis and
of uther such oompatis as th compt thairof beirs — ^the soum of
£12. Item, restand awand to Alane Cutis his guidschir the
soum of 20 merkis money in complete payment of the soume of
ane hundred merlds & for ye price of ane horse the soum of £40.
Item awand to Andro Games four bollis mele of the 74 yeir
crop of Menstrie ferme as mele given betwixt Yule and Candle-
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28 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
mas the said zeir — price of ye boll 50s summa £10^ Item to
James Macartney the soum of 10 merCis money whilk is assignit
to him be my lord of Argyle as pension furth of the myln of
Menstrie. Item, awand to my lord Erie of Argyle of silver
male of tliis crop instant 1580 zeirs the soum of £12. Item,
awand to the said lord 30 girsed lambis, price of ye peis 10s
snmma £15. Item, of small dettis and servant fees awand to
utheris, in the first to Marjorie Drummond for claith £4. Item,
awand to Alexander Swad for aill and famishing £4 2 4^»
Item to John Mains for aill and furnishing £5 4 4. Item to
John Henrysone wobster 50s. Item to Andro Alschinder for
lambis 428. Item to Janet Walker for aill £3 9 6* Item to
Gilbert Craigie chapman for small wares 17/4^ Item, to
Christian M'^Arthur for claith £18. Item, to his servantes for
thair fees viz to John Burr 5 merkis. Item to Margaret
M'^Arthur £4 Item to Hellen Stuart 31s. Item to Henry
Butler £3. Item to John Ewing 30 shillings. Item to James
Cuthbert alias 'James the Laird' 18/. Item to Thomas Alschin-
der 22s. Item to Isabel MTarlane 20s. Item to the Laird of
Polwarth for his teind the soum of 10 merkis. Summa of the
dettis awand be the deid £677 17 10^.
" Eestis of free geir the dettis deductit £437 15 6* to be
divided in twelve pairts — the deidis part £218 17 9** quhairof
the quot is componit for ten merkis.
" FoUowis the deidis legacie and latter will. Upon the fyft
day of Februar 1580 zeirs the q^ day the said Alex Alschinder of
Menstrie being seik in body but haill in mynd be hes latter
will makes constitutes nominates and ordainis James Alexander
his father's brother and John Alexander of Pitgogar, & Elizabeth
Alexander, relict of John Leishman, burges of Striveling his
executors; the said John Alexander to be only intromittor
with his gudis and geir. And nominates oversman ane nobil
lord and his gude lord and maister Colin Erl of Argyl, Lord
Campbell & Lome and Alain Cutis his gudescyr. Atour the said
Alexander names and constitutes the said James Alexander his
father's brother tutor testamentar, to his bames to wait thair-
upon for putting of his roumes and gudes to profit — sustenta-
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 29
tion & uphald of the hous to them and puting of thair geir to
profit, qnhill thair perfyt age that they be able to be put to
profit and gif the said James refuses to accept the said office
in that cais the said Alexander names and constitutes the said
John Alexander of Pitgogar, tutor testamentar to the said bames
— ^he accepting the said office with the restrictions foresaid, with
proyiBion also that the tutor testamentar acceptin the office
sal be halden and astrictit to mak just compt and reckonin of
his intromission to the remanent executors foresaid, to th weiU
of the said Alexander's bamea when or where the said tutor
shall be requirit. This wes done befoir thir witnesses above
written. Sic subscribitur" (Commissariat Record of Edinburgh,
vol ix.).
By his marriage, about the yeax 1567, with Marion,
daughter of Allan Couttie, Alexander Alexander had
a son, William, and two daughters, Janet and Christian.
Janet Alexander, elder daughter of Alexander
Alexander of Menstry, married Walter Cowan, mer-
chant-burgess of Stirling. On the 8th October 1590,
was baptized Andro Allan, son of Walter Cowan
and his wife Janet Alexander; another son, named
Antonie, was baptized on the 20th September 1591
(Stirling Baptismal Register),
Christian Alexander, younger daughter of Alex-
ander Alexander of Menstry, married, on the 25th
September 1592, Walter Neisch of Dubbiehead, Stir-
Ung. In the record of the marriage she is described
as ''dochter to umquhil Alexander Alschunder of
Menstrie" (Kirk Session Records of Stirling). In
October 1593, Walter Neisch was placed on the
Council of the Dean of Guild, on which he appears
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30 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
for several successive years, and again in 1606
(Gnildry Records). On the 10th June 1599, he is
described as a bailie of the burgh (Town Council
Records), He died in September 1606 of '' the con-
tagious sickness of the plague of pest." In his will
he is described as ^' of Wester Dubbettis, bailie burges
of Striveling;" he names as his executors " William
Alschinder of Menstrie, and Alexander Duncan
Paterson, burgess in Stirling, and Elizabeth Alex-
ander, his spouse, the said Elizabeth only intromis-
satrix, and Lord Murray of Tullibarden oversman."
He appoints his " free geir " to be divided among his
children. Among the debtors enumerated in his
inventory are ''Patrick Drummond of Milnab as
chamberlain of Stratheme; Abraham Drummond;
Sir James Chisholm of Cromlix ; Agnes Bruce, relict
of John Murray of Mulardoch; Robert Murray of
Buchindy ; Drummond of Drummond Emoch ; John
Stewart of Innergeldy; John Stewart in the Port;
Mr William Murray of Oughtertyre ; Patrick Murray
of Lochland ; James Mar, his tenant in Dubbettis ;
Richard Peat in Polmaise; Andrew Laurie; Sir
Robert Melville, when he was treasurer ; Lord Elphin-
stone, for two years' fee and ane half; Adam Oswald,
servitor to my Lord of Tullibarden" (Commissariat
Register of Stirling). Christian Alexander or Neisch
died in 1608. Her will, dated 15th March 1618,
names William Alexander of Menstry as one of the
cautioners (Com* Reg. of Stirling).
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 31
Walter Neisch, son of Walter Neisch of Dubbie-
head and his wife Christian Alexander, obtained oflBce
as an usher of the Scottish Exchequer. To this oflBce
he was appointed by a royal letter, dated White-
hall, 19th February 1632, and addressed to the Earl
of Morton, Treasurer; the Earl of Stratheme, Pre-
sident of the Privy Council ; and Viscount Stirling,
Principal Secretary for Scotland. As installation was
delayed, a royal letter was addressed to the Court of
Session on the 12th November 1633, and again on
the 28th January 1635, peremptorily commanding
that his title to the office of usher should be legally
confirmed (Register of Letters). Walter Neisch is
named in 1640 as sheriflf-clerk of Haddingtonshire,
an office conferred by his relative, the Earl of Stirling
(Reg. Mag. Sig., Paper Register, No. 479).
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CHAPTER IL
MEMOIR OF SIR WILLIAM ALEXANDER OF MENSTRY —
EARLY HISTORY.
Only son of Alexander Alexander of Menstry, Wil-
liam Alexander, afterwards Earl of Stirling, was bom
in the manor-house of that property. The date of his
birth is not certainly known. The opinion commonly
received, that he was bom in 1580, is untenable; it
rests solely on the circumstance that the words
''aetatis suae 57" are inscribed on his engraved por-
trait by Marshall, included in his '' Recreations with
the Muses," published in 1637. Now Lord Stirling's
portrait was not specially engraved for this work, a
few copies only containing it. With the engraver
Lord Stirling was certainly acquainted in 1631, when
he executed a decoration for his edition of the
Psalms. Writing in 1638, Principal Robert Baillie,
a relative, describes him as '' old " (Baillie's Letters,
vol. i., pp. 76, 77). The earliest authentic information
concerning him is that, having gained reputation as
a scholar, he was selected as travelling companion to
Archibald, seventh Earl of Argyle, whom he accom-
panied to France, Spain, and Italy (Argyle Papers,
Edin., 1834, 4to). The seventh Earl of Argyle was
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MEMOBIALS OF THE EAKL OP STIRLING. 33
son of Colin, the sixth earl, by his second wife, Anne
Keith, relict ofthe Regent, Earl of Murray. The regent
was murdered in 1570, and though the date of his
widow's marriage to the Earl of Argyle is unrecorded,
we may certainly assume that it did not occur be-
fore 1571. Archibald, the seventh earl, commanded the
royal troops at the battle of Glenlivet in 1594, which
would imply that he had then attained fall manhood.
If, as is nearly certain, his mother did not become
Countess of Argyle before 1571, his birth may be
assigned to one or two years after that date. His
lordship's guardians were likely to select as his asso-
ciate in Continental travel, one whose age and ex-
perience qualified him as a safe companion. If we
assume that he was five years older than the earl,
then we are led to conclude that the future poet
was bom about the year 1567. By the death of his
father, an event which took place on the 10th Febru-
ary 1580-1, his upbringing devolved on his paternal
granduncle, James Alexander, burgess of Stirling, who
was by his father in his will nominated '^ tutor to his
baimes " (see supra). As James Alexander resided
in Stirling, it may be assumed that he obtained his
early education at the grammar school of that place.
The rector of that school, for five years preceding
1676, was Thomas Buchanan, nephew of the more
celebrated George, and it is probable that, under the
superintendence of this eminent instructor, he was
grounded in his knowledge of classical learning. He
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34 MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OF STIRLING.
afterwards attended the University of Leyden *
(Hawthomden MSS., Advocates Library).
In 1597 William Alexander was infeft by Archi-
bald, Earl of Argyle, in '' the five pund land " of the
Mains of Menstry. The precept of service is dated
18th March 1596-7, and on the seal is written a sasine,
dated 4th March 1597-8 (Writs in Menstry Charter-
chest). From Archibald, Earl of Argyle, he received
subsequently the entire lands and barony of Menstry.
In a contract, dated 4th May 1605, he resigned to the
Earl of Argyle and to Dame Agnes Douglas, his
spouse, the lands of Menstry, wherein he stood infeft,
whereupon, in consideration of six thousand •merks
paid by him, and of services rendered to the earl '' in
foreign nations and at home," he obtained new infeft-
ment to himself and his heirs-male, in the whole lands
and barony of Menstry, extending to a twenty pound
land, for the yearly payment of 24 bolls of wheat, 6
score bolls malt, 52 bolls oatmeal, and 23 bolls oats,
together with four dozen '' sufficient capons, and two
dozen hens, and 30 undipped lambs, with 100 merks
of money, and 40 merkis at the entry of an heir in
place of the duplication of the feu-duty." To this
instrument Archibald Alexander, burgess of Stirling,
and one of the baiUes of that burgh, is a witness
(Eeg. Mag. Sig., Ub. xUv., 84).
* A careM examination of the Registers of the Uniyersity of Leyden has been
obligingly made by Dr da Rien, Consexrator of the Library, who has failed to
discover any reference to Alexander as cwia academicus. He may, howeyer,
have attended the uniyersity for a time without being enrolled.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 35
A charter^ dated at Edinburgh, 24th September
1607, was granted under the Great Seal to William
Alexander of Menstry, his heirs and assignees, of the
mines, minerals, and metals * of every kind within the
lands and barony of Menstry, a tenth part of the pro-
ceeds being made payable to the king (Reg. Mag.
Sig., Ub. xlv., 78).
Introduced at court by the Earl of Argyle, William
'Alexander became tutor to Prince Henry. Through
his poetical talents and general learning, James YI. at
once received him into favour, and he continued to
retain an ascendancy over the vacillating humours of
the pedantic monarch. When James, in 1603, suc-
ceeded to the English throne, Alexander followed in
his train. He was soon afterwards enrolled as one of
the thirty-two gentlemen extraordinary of Prince
Henry's private chamber (Dr Birch's Life of Henry,
Prince of Wales, p. 347).
Prior to his forming a connection with the English
court, Alexander was known as an author. His first
poem appeared in a small quarto volume under the
title : " The Tragedie of Darivs. By William Alex-
ander of Menstrie. Edinburgh : Printed by Robert
Waldegraue, Printer to the King's .Maiestie, 1603."
In his address to the reader, he writes : '' I present
to thy favourable viewe and censure the first essay of
my rude and unskilfuU Muse in a Tragicall poem,"
• Copper, gilrer, and cobalt vere formerly worked at the base of the OchOs,
in the vicinity of Menstry.
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36 MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OF STIRLING.
The poem is accompanied by two soimets in praise of
the author, ''by Jo: Morray" and " W. Quin," and is
dedicated : " To the most excellent, high and mightie
Prince James the 6, King of Scots, my dreade
Soveraigne :
** Whose sacred brow a twofolde laorell beares ;
To whom Apollo his owne harpe resignes,
And everlastiDg Trophies vertue reares."
Alexander next produced a thin quarto, containing
a poem of eighty-four stanzas, entitled " A Paraenesis
to the Prince, by William Alexander of Menstrie.
London, printed by Richard Field for Edward
Blovnt, 1604." In the same year he reprinted his
''Darius," somewhat improved in style, along with
his tragedy of "Croesus," under the title of "The
Monarchicke Tragedies." In this work the dedica-
tion to the king was extended from three to thirteen
stanzas. He also included in the volume his
"Paraenesis to Prince Henry."
In the " Paraenesis " he addresses the prince not
wholly in the language of panegyric, administering
wholesome counsels, and setting forth that wicked
princes may be dethroned. Another poetical work
from his pen appeared in 1604, with the title,
" Avrora, containing the first fancies of the authw's
youth," accompanied by an epistle dedicatory to the
Countess of Argyle. In upwards of a hundred
sonnets he celebrates the charms of a rural beauty,
who rejected his pleadings, and gave her hand to
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MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OF STIRLING. 37
another. By some this beauty is supposed to be a
creation of the poet's fancy, by others she has been
held as a real person whom he had imsuccessfuUy
Tvooed. Others have conjectured, perhaps more cor-
rectly, that the lady who became his wife was the
real source of his inspiration. The following is a
specimen of the poet's manner :
" I would to God, a way were found.
That by some secret sympathie nnknowne,
My faire my fande's depth might sound.
And know my state, as clearly as her owne.
Then blest, most blest was I,
No doubt beneathe the skie,
I were the happiest wight ;
For if my state they knew,
It ruthless rockes would rue.
And mend me if they might
« But as the babe before the wand,
Whose faultlesse part, his parents will not trust,
For veij feare doth trembling stand.
And quakes to speake, although his cause be just.
So, set before her face.
Though bent to plead for grace
I wot not how I faile ;
Yet minding to say much,
That string I never touch.
But stand dismaid, and pale.
" My bashfiilnesse, when she beholds,
Or rather my affection out of bounds,
Although my face, my state unfolds.
And in my hue discovers hidden wounds ;
Yet jeasting at my wo.
She doubts if it be so.
As she could not conceiye it ;
This grieves me, most of all,
She triumphs in my fall.
Not seeming to perceive it.
*' Then since in vain, I plaints impart,
To scornful eares, in a contemned scroule,
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38 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
*
And since my tonnge betrays my hart,
And cannot tell the anguish of my soule ;
Henceforth 111 hide my losses,
And not recompt the crosses.
That do my joyes orethrow ;
At least to senseless things.
Mounts, vales, woods, floods and springs,
I shall them only show."
Sometime prior to 1603, the poet espoused Janet,
only daughter of Su* William Erskine, younger brother
of the family of Erskine of Balgonie, and commonly
styled parson of Campsie, from his holding oflSce as
commendator of the bishopric of Glasgow. On the
8th May 1607, Sir William Erskine, described as
''parson of Campsie," received a royal warrant for
an Exchequer pension of £200 a-year, to be shared
with his son-in-law, William Alexander — ^an annuity
of half the amoimt being made payable to Alexander
for life after Erskine's decease* (Docquet Book of
Exchequer).
Sir William Erskine purchased from the Earl of
Argyle the annual duties payable by his son-in-law
for the lands of Menstry. On the 6th Jime 1609, a
royal charter passed under the Great Seal, confirming
a charter of alienation and vendition, from the Earl
of Argyle, whereby Sir William Erskine obtained the
lands and barony of Menstry in liferent, and Sir Wil-
liam Alexander and his spouse. Lady Janet Erskine,
the lands in conjunct fee (Reg. Mag. Sig., xlviii. 131).
* Alexander Erskine, son of Sir William Erskine, held some office abont the
conrt; and his grandson, Sir James Erskine, obtained a grant of lands in Ulster
(Spottiswoode Miscellany, vol. i., p. 104, note).
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OP STIRLING. 39
The conditions of the charter remained unfulfilled;
and nineteen years afterwards we find Sir William
Alexander consenting to a royal charter, whereby he
received the lands and barony of Menstry fi:om the
Earl of Argyle, on an annual payment of 80 lib. Scots.
Encouraged by his royal master, Alexander con-
tinued to woo the muse. He published, in 1605,
''The Alexandrsean : a Tragedy," which afterwards
suggested to Arthur Johnston, the following epigram:
** Confer Alezandros ; Macedo yictridbnB armis
Magnus erat, Scotos carmine Major uter ? *'
Having composed a fourth tragedy, he, in 1607,
issued a quarto volume, entitled " The Monarchicke
Tragedies— Croesus, Darius, The Alexandraean, lulius
Caesar; newly enlarged, by William Alexander,
Gentleman of the Prince's Priuie Chamber. Car-
mine dij superi, placantur carmine manes. London :
Printed by Valentine Simmes for Ed. Blovnt, 1607."*
To this edition was prefixed the following compli-
mentary sonnet by his Mend and associate. Sir
Robert Aytoun :
" Well may the programme of thy tragic stage
Invite the curions pomp-expecting eyes
To gaze on present shows of passdd age,
Which just desert Monarchic dare baptize.
Crowns thrown from thrones to tombs, detombed arise,
To match thy mnse with a Monarchic theme ;
* Of this work, a third edition was, in 1616, issued in duodecimo, from the
press of William Stansby.
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40 MEMORIALS OF THE EAKL OF STIRLING.
That whilst her sacred soaring deayes the skies,
A vulgar sntject may not wrong the same.
And what gives most of lustre to thy fame —
The worthiest monarch that the sun can see.
Doth grace thy labours with his glorious name,
And deigns protector of thy birth to be.
Thus all Monarchic : patron, subject, style.
Make thee the Monaroh-T^agio of this isle."
In 1608 William Alexander and his relative,
Walter Alexander, of the prince's household, were
authorised to receive and uplift all arrears of taxes
due to the Crown, from the first year of the reign of
Edward VI. to the thirtieth year of the reign of
Queen Elizabeth, the arrears amounting to £12,000,
of which they were to receive a commission of one-
half. The patent is subjoined :
** James, by the grace of God, King of England, Scotland,
Frannce, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, &c. To our Trea-
surer, Chancellor, and Treasurer Chamberlain, and Barons of our
Excheqaer, now being and that hereafter for the tinie shalbe,
and to all other our officers or ministers to whom it shall or
may appertain, greeting. Whereas we have been informed by
our welbeloved subjects William Alexander, one of the gent of
the Privy Chamber to our Right Welbeloved sonne Henry, and
Walter Alexander, one the gent. Ushers to our said sonne, that
divers debts of divers kinds and of great value did grow due to
the Crown of England in the thirtieth year of the raigne of our
late Sister, the late Queene Elizabeth, and at divers times before
upward to the first year of the raigne of King Edward the Sixt
inclusively, which by the neglect of Sheriflfs and other officers
have not been levied nor paid, but are yet due to us — ^manie of
which debts (at the first good and sperate) bee now in process
of time become either verie doubtfull and more desperate, and
almost^ all of them, by reason that the debtors bee dead or
deceased, and the estates heretofore subject and lyable to the
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MEMORIALS OP THft EARL OP STIRLING. 41
payment of the same be now either consumed, or disposed, or
aliened into so manie hands that it shall be verie difficult or
chargeable at this daie to levage the sama And whereas the
said William Alexander and Walter Alexander have made offer
unto us that they, and such as they shall appoint and substitute
(with the assistance of our Court & Officers), will doe their best
endeavours to earn a great part of the debt to be levied and
brought into the receipt of our Exchequer at Westminster,
within the space of two years now next ensuing. In considera-
tion thereof, and the better to encourage the said William Alex-
ander and Walter Alexander to perform their said offer. Wee doe
hereby for us, our heirs and successors, constitute and appoint
the said William Alexander and Walter Alexander by them-
selves, their deputies and substitutes, during the space of two
years now next ensuing, to discover and receive for us and in
our name such and so manie of the said debts which did grow
due to the said Crown in the thirtieth year of the raigne of our
late Sister, or at any time before upward till the first year of the
raigne of King Edward the sixt inclusively, and are not yet
levied nor paid, as shall amount to the sume of twelve thousand
pounds of lawfull money of England. And for and towards the
recompence of the great charge, travallis, and expensis of the said
William Alexander and Walter Alexander, their executors and
assignes, deputies and substitutes, in the accomplishment of the
premises, Wee of our especial grace, certain knowledge and
meere motion, have given and granted, and by these presents for
us, our heirs and succesors, doe give and grant, unto the said
William Alexander and Walter Alexander, their executors and
assignes, one full moiety and half part of all such of the said
debts which did grow due to the said Crown within the times
aforesaid, as by the labour, meanes, industry, or endeavours of
them, the said William Alexander and Walter Alexander, or
either of them or of their executors or assignes, or of
their deputies or substitutes, or of any of them, shall bee to the
use of Us, our heirs and successors, within the said space of two
years, or paid unto our said receipt, or otherwaies to the use of
Us, our heirs and successors, and shall be estoUed by the order
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42 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
of our said Court of Exchequer — ^fche said moiety not exceeding
in the whole the sume of six thousand pounds of lawfull money
of England. And our will and pleasure is, and by these presents
wee doe for us, our heirs and successors, will and command you
and every one of you to whom the same shall or may appertain
from time to time, during the time aforesaid, to grant and cause
to be made forth of our said Court of Exchequer such and so
manie commissions, writs, and other precepts as may be thought
requisite and required by the said William Alexander and
Walter Alexander, their executors or assigns, or their or anie
of their deputies or substitutes, or any of them, for the better
finding out, revealing, levying, and receiving of anie of the said
debts due to us, and for the seizing and extending of the lands
or goods of anie person or persons lyable to the payment of any
such debts without any fees or allowances (more than the usual
and accustomed) to be paid or allowed for the same. And our
further will and pleasure is, and by these presents for us, our
heirs and successors. Wee doe further will and command you
and everie'one of you to whom the same shall or male appertaine,
that hereafter from time to time, when and as often as any
summe or summes of monie shall be paid unto the receipt of
the said Exchequer, for or by reason of anie of the said debts,
recovered by the labour, meanes, or industry of the said William
Alexander and Walter Alexander, their executors, administra-
tors, or assignes, their or anie of their deputies or substitutes, or
anie of them, ye doe from time to time deliver and paie or cause
to bee delivered and paid unto the said William Alexander and
Walter Alexander, their Executors, Administrators, and Assignes,
their or anie of their deputies or substitutes, the moitie and one
half of all and everie such summe or summes of money so paid
into the said receipt (the same moietie not exceeding in the
whole the summe of Six Thousand pounds of lawfull money of
England as aforesaid), as of our free guifte and reward without
or charge, to bee upon them or anie attempt to be
yielded by them or anie of them for the same or any parte
thereof. And these our Letters shalbe y' sufficient warrant and
discharge in this behalf. And for the better performance of the
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MEMORIALS OF THE EAKL OF STIRLING. 43
said service, we doe by these presents authorize the said William
Alexander and Walter Alexander, by themselves, their deputies,
substitutes, and assignes, and everie of them, at aU times here-
after, from the daie of the date hereof for and during the space
of the said two years from thence next ensuing, freelie to search
now and peruse all accompts, specialties, rolls, records, or anie
other evidences or writings wheresoever remayning, either in the
custodie of our said officers or ministers in our said Exchequer,
or in anie other our offices, place or places what or wheresoever
within our realme of England, or dominion of Wales,'touching
the above mentioned premises or the manifestation or explana-
tion of the same, or anything hereto belonging, and to take copies
of the same, or of so much thereof as they or anie of them shall
think needfull under the hand or hands of such officer, or officers,
in whose custody they or anie of them shall be found, without
resistance, deniaU, or delay of anie such officer or officers, their
deputie or deputies, and without paying any fees or money for
the said searches, or any more for the said copies, from time to
time to bee made, or anie of them, oftener than in such cases is
used and accustomed to bee paid for such copies. Given xmder
our Privie Sealle, at our Palace of Westminster, the thirteenth
daie of January, in the fifth yeare of our raigne of England,
Fraunce, and Ireland, and of Scotland the one and fortieth."
What benefits arose from a grant, so formally con-
veyed, is mirecorded ; it is extremely improbable
that any substantial emolument accrued.
On the 26th May 1609, Sir William Alexander,
described as '^ knight," received a charter of appris-
ing against Sir James Schaw of Sauchie, Knight, for
nonpayment of 17,600 merks, '' according to a con-
tract between Sir Jam^s Schaw of Sauchie on the
one part, and Master Joseph Halden of Myreton and
Sir William Alexander of Menstry on the other."
The lands apprised comprehended the barony of
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44 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Sauchie, and Wester Tillicoultay, in Clackmannan-
shire, the lands of Gartinkeiris, Fifeshire, and the
lands of Cowden, Caviltoun, and Bumthill, in the
county of Kinross (Reg. Mag. Sig., lib. i., 185, fol.
134). The record of this transaction shows that
Alexander had attained his knighthood in 1609, or
at an earlier date.
With his poetical contemporaries. Sir William
Alexander had already attained considerable inti-
macy. To the "Heroicall Epistles" of Michael
Drayton, published in 1611, he prefixed the follow-
ing sonnet:
" To M. MicHABLL Dbatton.
** Now I perceine PUhagoras diuinde
When he that mooked Maxim did maintaine
That spirits once spoilde, renested were againe,
Though changed in shape, remaining one in mind ;
These lone sicke princes passionate estates;
Who feeling reades, he cannot bnt allow,
That Ouid*a sonle renines in Drayton now;
Still learned in lone, still rich in rare conceits,
This pregnant spirit affecting further skill.
Oft altring forme, from ynlgar wits retirde
In diners ideoms mightely admirde.
Did proeecnte that sacred study still.
While to a ftdl perfection now attainde
He sings so sweetly that himselfe is stainde."
The death of Prince Henry, at the age of eighteen,
on the 6th November 1612, plunged the nation into
grief, and everywhere evoked the tragic muse.
Among the conspicuous elegiasts was Sir William
Alexander, whose " Elegie," extending to four quarto
leaves, was published at Edinburgh, by Andro Hart,
in his shop '^ on the north side of the High Street, a
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 45
little beneath the Crosse/' * and which, it is curious
to find, was long afterwards, in a renovated form,
the book-shop of Mr Archibald Constable (Masson's
Drummond of Hawthomden, p. 37).
The versification of the '' Elegie on the Death of
Prince Henrie," was in Sir William Alexander's best
manner; and, in token of appreciation, the king
appointed him to the same position in the household
of Prince Charles, which he had occupied in that of
the deceased prince. In 1613 the king conjoined
him in a grant, which held promise of emolument.
In 1526 a company of German miners obtained fi:om
James V. a grant for forty-three years, of the gold
and silver mines of Scotland. What measure of suc-
cess attended the operations of this company does
not clearly appear, but the results had not been quite
fruitless, for, in 1693, Thomas Foulis, goldsmith in
Edinburgh, accepted in payment of the sum of
£14,594 Scots, which he had advanced in money and
jewels to James VI. and his queen, a grant of the
gold, silver, lead, and other mines in Crawfurd Muir.
A silver mine at Hilderston, in the neighbourhood of
Linlithgow, was discovered in the year 1607, and in
the following year Sir Bevis Buhner t was, by royal
* A second edition of the *' El^e " appeared in 1618. The only copies known
to exist are contuned in the Uniyersity and Advocates Libraries, Edinborgh.
t Among the many projects of James VI. for procuring money was one with
which this adventurous engineer was associated. He had been employed by
Queen Elizabeth as an explorer of mines, and James, shortly after his accession
to the English throne, proposed to him the formation of a company for searching
the several mines. This company was to consist of twenty-four persons, willing
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46 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
patent, appointed surveyor, with authority to work
the mine on behalf of the Crown. In 1613 the king
granted the mine at Hilderston to Sir William Alex-
ander, Thomas Foulis, and Paulo Pinto, a Portu-
guese, on their paying a royalty of a tenth portion of
the refined ore (Acta Sec. Con., 17th March 1613).
The mines of Crawfiird Muir proved ultimately
unproductive, involving the industrious goldsmith
who worked them in serious loss, while the silver
yielded at Hilderston was attended with such heavy
cost in the process of refining it, that the mine was
speedily abandoned (Proceedings of Scot. Soc. of
Antiqs., vol. x., p. 236).
When Sir William Alexander became Scottish
Secretary of State, he sought to compensate himself
and the heirs of Thomas Foulis for those untoward
speculations. John Foulis, a relative of the deceased
Edinburgh goldsmith, was, in November 1626, apT
pointed collector of wine duties at the several Scot-
tish ports ; while George Foulis, Master of the Coin-
age, another kinsman of Thomas Foulis, was, in
1630, recommended to the favour of the Commission-
ers of Exchequer (Register of Letters).
In 1613 Sir William Alexander published a com-
pletion of the third part of Sir Philip Sidney's
to dlsbtine £300 each, and these were to be severally knighted, provided they
possessed a revenue of £500 per annum. Each was to be called a Knight of the
Gold Mines or a Golden Knight. Only two knights were created— Sir Bevis Bul-
mer himself and Sir John Cleypoole— when the Earl of Salisbury induced the
king to abandon the project (Atkinson's Discoverie and Historie of the Gold
Mynes, written in 1610 : Edin. 1825).
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MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OP STIRLING. 47
romance of '^ Arcadia/' which with the initials W. A.
will be found in the fourth and subsequent editions
of that work. In the same year he commenced
a correspondence with William Drummond of Haw-
thomden, to whom he was attracted by his " Teares
on the Death of Moeliades/' an elegy on the death of
Prince Henry, which Drummond had composed in
his best manner. In 1614 Alexander was visited at
Menstry by the bard of Hawthomden, who has, in
a letter to one of his correspondents, presented the
following narrative of his reception :
*' As to my long stay in these parts, ye sal rather impute it
to so sociable a companie from whom I am even loth to depart,
then to a wilftd neglect of promiset coming to yow. Fortune this
last day was so favourable, as be plaine blindnesse to acquent
me with that most excellent spirit, and rarest gem of o' North,
S. V. A. [Sir William Alexander] ; for coming neare his house,
I had almost beene a Christiane father to one of his childring.
He acceptet me so Mndlie, and made me so good entertainement
(which, whatsomever, with him I culd not have thocht but
good), that I can not well schow. Tables removed, efter
Homer's fassion well satiat, he honord me so much as to schow
me his bookes and papers. This much I wU say, and perchance
not with out raison dar say, if the heauens prolong his dayes to
end his Day, he hath done more in One Day, then Tasso did al
his lyflf, and Bartas in his Two Weekes : thocht both the one
and the other be most praise worthie. I estimed of him befor I
was acquent with him, because of his Workes; but I protest
hencefoorth, I will estime of his Workes, because of his awne
good courtes meeke disposition. He entreatet me to haue made
longer stay; and, beleave me, I was as sorrie to depart as a new
enamouret lover wcdd be from his mistress."
Alexander was now engaged in composing his
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48 MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OP STIRLING.
longest and most ambitious poem. He published
the first part of it in 1614, preceded by a com-
mendatory sonnet from his friend of HawthomdeiL
The poem is thus entitled :
"Doomes-day; or, The Great Day of the Lord's lydgement,
by S' William Alexander, Ejiight. Printed by Andro Hart,
and are to be soldo at his shop on the north side of the High
street, a little beneath the Crosse. Anno Dom. 1614" 4to.
In its original form, the poem embraced four books
or ''hours;" these were, in 1637, extended to twelve,
embracing more than 11,000 verses. The poem
epitomises the history of the ancient world, and
indulges in many lofty flights and daring specula-
tions ; it is believed that it suggested to Milton the
idea of his poem of " Paradise Lost." James VI.
was captivated by it ; on its merits, he styled -the
author his ''philosophical poet." He was, however,
not unconscious that the poet exhibited a certain
artificiality of manner, and was led, at his expense,
to compose the following sonnet :
" The Cohplainte of the Muses to Alexaitdeb tpon him selfe, fob his
inobatrnide towabdes them, bt hubtino them with his habd
hammebed wobdes, fitteb to be t8ed tpon his mineballes.*
*' liolde your hande, holde, meroie, mercie, spare
Those sacred nine that ntirst yon manie a yeare ;
Fall ofte» alace, with oomforte and with care.
Wee bath'd yow in Castalia's fonnteyns cleare,
Then on our winges aloft wee did yow beare.
And set yow on oar statelie forked hille,
When yow oar heayenlie harmonies did heare,
The rockes resounding with their echos stille.
* Sir James Balfoai's MS. Collections in the Advocates library. The words
of the sonnet printed in italics are corrections in the king's own handwriting.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 49
Although your neighbours have conspir'd to kill
That art that did the laurell crowne obteyne,
Who borrowing from the Raven theyr ragged quille,
Bewray their hard, harsh, trotting, tumbling yeyne.
Such hammering harde, yowre mettles hwrde require,
Our songes are fill'd with smooth o*erfloumg fire."
In 1614 the king nominated Sir William Alex-
ander to the office of Master of Requests, a capacity
in which he proved serviceable by repressing the
demands on the royal bounty of his unprosperous
countrymen. At his recommendation, a royal edict
appeared in April 1619, in which the king ''dis-
charges all manner of persons from resorting out of
Scotland to this our kmgdome, unlesse it be gentle-
men of good qualitie, merchands for traffiques, or
such as shall have a generall license from our Coun-
selle of that kingdome, with expresse prohibitioim to
all masters of shippes that they transport no such
persones." It is added in the edict that '' Sir William
Alexander, Master of Requests, has received a com-
mission to apprehend and send home, or to punish,
all vagrant persones who come to England to cause
trouble or bring discredit on their country " (Register
of Letters).
With the poet of Hawthomden Sir William Alex-
ander continued a friendly correspondence. On the
4th February 1616-7 he despatched to Drummond
the following letter :
"to biy veey worthy friend,
"Mr William Drummond of Hawthorndbn.
" Sir, — I have sent you here a sonnet which the king made
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50 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
the last week, moved by the roughness of the season, as you
may perceive by his allusion to Saturn and Janus meeting.
This forced the other from me. The last day being private with
his Majesty, after other things, we fortuned to discourse of Eng^
lish poetry; and I told one rule that he did like of exceedingly,
which was this : That to make a good sotmd there miist atill he
first a short syllable and then a long, which is not long positively
of itself, btU comparatively, when it followeth a shorter; so that
one syllaMe may be long in one place and short in another, accord-
ing as it is matched; for a syllable seems short when it is, as it
were, borne dovm with a longer. Though this letter would seem
idle to some, yet I know it will prove serious to you ; and I
seek in this but to get your humour to whom I write. Tou
will find this, by your own observation, better than a man can
express it with words, though few or none have ever remarked
it. 1 have presently written a number of serious letters ; and
last of all, have recreated my mind with this, wherewith I
end. — ^Your brother, W. Alexander.
"Nbwmaeket, the 4 of Fetmmry 1616."
"Sonnet bt En^a Jambs VL
*' How cnielly these oatiyes do conspire
What lo&thsome loye breeds such a baleful band
Betwixt the cankred king of OrtUi land.
That melancholy old and angry sire,
And him who wont to quench debate and ire
Amongst the Romans, when his ports were dosed ;
But now his double face is still disposed,
With Saturn's help, to freeze us at the fire.
The earth, o'ercoyered with a sheet of snow,
Refuses food to fowl, to bird and beast ;
The chilling cold letts eyerything to grow,
And surfeits catteU with a starying feast.
Curst be that loye, and mought continue short,
That kills aU creatures, and doth spoil our sport"
"Sir W. Albxandkr's Reply to thb Kino.
" When Britain's monarch, in true greatness great,
His councirs counsel did things past unfold,
He (eminent in knowledge, as in state).
What might occur oraculously told ;
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MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OF STIRLING. 51
And when, &r raised from this terrestrial ronnd.
He numbrons notes with measored fury frames ;
Each accent weighed, no jarr in sense or sound ;
He Phoebus seems, his lines Castalian streams.
This worth (though much we owe) doth more extort ;
All honour should, but it constrains to love.
While rayished still above the vulgar sort.
He prince, or poet, more than man doth prove.
But all his due who can afford him then,
A god of poets, and a king of men ?
'* This day design'd to spoil the world of peace.
And accessory to so foul a crime.
Why should it rest in the records of time.
Since stained by treason, forfeiting the place ?
Oh t but those err who would it odious make
This day from danger Britain's monarch saved ;
That day when first the mischief was conceived.
Let it accurst, still clad with clouds, look black,
Then happy day to which (by heaven's decree,
A consecrated) festival pomp is due ;
Long may thy saint (a living martyr) view
All hearts for love of him to honour thee.
More length we wish, but what thou wanVjst of light
Shall be by fire extorted from the wigfU,'*
Writing to Michael Drayton in 1618, Drummond
has these words : '' I am oft with Sir W. and you in
my thoughts, and desire nothing more than that by
letters we may oft meet and mingle our souls." In a
letter, dated 20th December 1618, and addressed
to Sir William Alexander himself, the poet of Haw-
thomden writes, '^ Never any friendship of mine went
so near my thoughts as yours, because I never thought
any so worthy. It is all the treasure and conquest,
when death shall remove this pageant of the world
from me, that I have here to vaunt of; neither would
I wish another epitaph and hie jacet over my grave,
than that you esteemed me worthy of your friend-
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52 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
ship. There is nothing I long so much for as to see
the perfection of your works. May fortune one day
be ashamed to see such a spirit so long attend the
imgrateful court, that deserves to have the sovereignty
of all Parnassus!" (Masson's Memoir of William
Drummond, p. 84.)
In 1618 William Lithgow, in his '' Pilgrim's Fare-
well," celebrates the bards of Menstry and Haw-
thomden in the following couplet :
" Amongst these long Goodnightes, farewell yee Poets deare ;
Grane Menstrie^ trae Castalian fire, quick Drummond in his spheaie."
In a letter addressed to Drummond, dated 9th
November 1619, Drayton writes :
"Little did you think how oft that noble Mend of yours, Sir
William Alexander (that man of men), and I have remembered
yon before we trafficked in friendship."
In his metrical epistle ''On Poets and Poetry,"
published in 1619, Drayton commends Alexander
and Drummond in these lines :
' * So Scotland sent ns hither for onr own,
That man whose name I ever would haye known
To stand by mine, that most ingenions knight
My Alexander, to whom in his right
I want extremely. Yet in speaking thus
I do but show the love that was 'twixt ns.
And not his numbers, which were braye and high ;
So like his mind was his clear poesy.
And my dear Drummond, to whom much I owe
For his much loye ; and proud was I to know
His poesy. For which two worthy men
I Menstrie still shall loye, and Hawthomden."
To Sir William Alexander, whom he styles ''my
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MEMOBIALS OP THE EARL OP STIRLING. 53
worthily beloved," John Davies of Hereford addressed
the following epigram :
" Great Alexander (whose snccessM Sword
Made him a god with men) achieved no more
Then thy as happy T&n, hath well assnr'd
Ynto thy Name, which Glory doeth decore.
I know thee not; but I know I should do ill
Not to take knowledge of what is in Thee,
When thou hast publisht it with so great skill,
Which makes Thee ore thy MowMtihts Soueraigne bee :
For they, beeing happy, prou'd vnhappy Men,
Whome thou hast made most happy with thy Pen." *
King James had long intended to compose a
metrical version of the Psalms, which might super-
sede that of Stemhold and Hopkins, used in England,
and in a modified form by the Scottish Presbyterians.
In his ''Poetical Exercises at Vacant Hours," pub-
lished in 1591, he informs the reader, that should his
verses be well accepted, he would proceed to publish
" such number of the Psalms " as he '' had perfited,'*
and would be encouraged "to the ending of the rest."
In a General Assembly held at Burntisland in 1601,
he set forth the importance of improving the version
then in use (Spottiswoode's History, p. 446). In his
project the king invited Alexander's assistance, but
was, on the whole, disposed to follow his own method.
Acknowledging a psalm which had been sent him by
Drummond for the royal approval, Alexander writes
thus (Drummond's Works, 1711, p. 151) :
** Brotheb, — I received your last letter, with the psalm you
sent, which I think very well done. I had done the same long
* The Sconrge of Folly, by John Davies of Hereford. Loud. 1611-14.
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54 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
before it came ; but he prefers his own to all else, though, per-
chance, when you see it, you will think it the worst of the three.
No man must meddle with that subject, and therefore I advise
you to take no more pains therein ; but I, as I have ever wished
you, would have you to make choice of some new subject worthy
of your pains, which I should be glad to see. I love the muses
as well as ever I did, but can seldom have the occasion to fre-
quent them. All my works are written over in one book, ready
for the press, but I want leisure to print them. So referring
all further to our old friend Sir Archibald Acheson,* who is
coming home, I continue. Your loving friend,
"W. Alexander.
"London, 18th April 1620."
To the subject of Sir William Alexander's connec-
tion with King James' version of the Psalms, we
shall refer subsequently. Sir William was, in No-
vember 1620, informed by the poet of Hawthomden
that he suflfered from a complaint, not understood by
his physicians. He writes :
"Sm, — ^When yee have vnderstood the cause of my long
silence, I hope I shall not onlye obtaine pardon but pittye : as
our Petrarch,
' Spero trouar pieU non che perdono.'
These moneths by past (as to some great States) to mee too
haue beene fataU : for these eight weekes I haue beene languish-
ing in sicknesse, and that more by the ignorance of physitians
(which, being no where good, are heere naught), than any defect
of nature : for my disease being a paine of the syde, they can
not tell to what to adscriue the cause, nor how to help mee. If
* Sir Archibald AcheBon of Gosford, Haddingtonshire, was a cherished friend
of Sir William Alexander. They became associated in the office of Secre-
tary of State for Scotland. In 1611 Acheson obtained a large grant of lands in
Ireland, and his expected return from that kingdom is referred to in Alexander's
letter. From him descend the Earls of Gosford.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING, 55
it shall happen mee now to dye, yee haue loosed a great admirer
of jonr woorth ; and the greatest conquest I have made on earth
is, that I am assured yee loue my remembrance."
From the Hawthomden poet, Alexander received
the following graceftil sonnet, not long afterwards :
" Thongli I have twice been at the gates of death,
And twice found shut those gates which ever mourn.
This but a lightening is, truce ta'en to breath
For late-bom sorrows augur fleet return.
Amidst thy sacred cares and courtly toils,
Alexis, when thou shalt hear wandering Fame
Tell Death hath triumphed o*er my mortal spoils
And that on earth I am but a sad name.
If thou e'er held me dear, by all our love.
By aU that bliss, those joys, Heayen here us gaye,
I conjure thee, and by the Kaids of Joye,
To graye this short remembrance on my graye :
Here Damon lies whose songs did sometime grace
The murmuring Esk ; may roses shade the place ! "
In the two following letters, Drummond congratu-
lates his correspondent on his recovery from an
attack of tertian ague :
''To S. W. A[lexander].
" What thankes can I giue to God Almiglity for such vnex-
spected help, which of his infinit goodnesse he hath bestowed
on you, when yee fell into such a dangerous ague. Yee may
thinke how your letters moued mee, when euen yet at the remem-
brance of the accident I am in a horror. How miserable had the
estate of so many beene, which all liue [love?] your life, for none
being so well loued, this griefe had beene vniuersalL But God
both hath had pittye on vs, and of all true worth, which had
dyed w* you.*'
''To S. W. A[lexander].
" That yee are releeued of your tertiane ague, et tibi et mihi
grcUulor: yee should not despaire of your fortunes. [Hee] who
drew you there and fixed mee here contrarye to our resolutiones,
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56 MEMORIALS OP THE EAEL OF STIRLING,
Hee only from all danger may vindicate our fortunes, and make
vs sure. Hee to this time hath brought mee in the world to be
without richesse riche, and then most happily did it fall out w*
mee, when I had no hope in man left mee ; and this came to me
because on him, and not on man, my hopes reUed. And there-
fore, that I now Uue, that I enjoye a deare idlenesse, sweet soli-
tarinesse, I haue it of him, and not &om man. Trust in him :
preferre not [to] certainties, vncertaine hopes.
'* Conspirauit in dolores nostros hssc sestas, Sola dies poterit
tantum linire dolorem, — for we have what to plaine and regrait
together, and I what alone I must lament
" I attend now what that most mercifuU God shall determine
[to] doe w* mee, who from my infancye, not without wonder,
a simple, careless man, from many dangers, wanting all neces-
saries, hath saued and preserved from jxmerty* And it is a
greater wonder to mee, to find my selfe yet to this day alife,
lining, and that the injuries of this Age haue not overwhelmed
mee, [so] that in such small bounds of wealth I haue to fiunish
all necessaryes; than to heare at Court how men of no worth,
from the dust, to be raised to the top of the wheele of Fortune,
when Shee pleaseth to sport her selfe" (Hawthornden MSS.,
Advocates Library).
In the autumn of 1619, Sir William Alexander
brought to Scotland a budget of letters addressed
to Drummond. In the packet was included a
letter from Michael Drayton, which Drummond ac-
knowledged in these terms :
"To M. Dbayton.
"The Summer might [as well] come without flowers, as S'
W[illiam Alexander] without letters. Wonder haue oft been
inquisitive of, about your Poemes, wondering they are not come
from the press. I long to heare the progresse of your Poemes
* The words in iUUies, and a few similar expressions elsewliere, as to poverty
or obligation, are deleted in the scrolls, probably by the poet's son.
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MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OF STIRLING. 57
printed. There is no verses I delight more to read than yours,
* Shine as the moone among the lesser starres.' If I heere of
your byding at London, I will repaire the long silence of tyme
past of the last yeere. Old S' W™ Esken * chalenged me in your
name, of what I was most innocent : for witnesse all that euer
loued poesye [all those powers that infuse or lone sweet poesye],
that I did not answer your letter, which a Tortoyse might haue
brought to Scotland in such a period of tyme. Esteeme me
among those that loue you, which can not haue an end, being
grounded on your owne worth."
* Sir William Erskine, father-in-law of Sir William Alexander.
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CHAPTER III.
MEMOIR OF SIR WILLIAM ALEXANDER OF MENSTRY —
ORIGIN AND EARLY HISTORY OF HIS CONNECTION
WITH NEW SCOTLAND.
Canada was explored or discovered by Sebastian
Cabot in 1497 ; a European settlement was made in
1541 at St Croix by Jacques Cartier, a French navi-
gator. Consequent on the loss at sea of M. de
Roberval, viceroy of Canada, with a train of adven-
turers in 1549, the government of France abandoned
further attempts at colonisation for nearly half a
century. At length in 1598, Henry IV. appointed
the Marquis de la Roche lieutenant-general of
Canada; but that nobleman having imwisely at-
tempted a settlement on the Isle de Sable, and made
an unsuccessful cruise upon the coast, returned home
in disgrace. In 1602 the English sought to plant a
colony, but the French in 1603 took possession of
the occupied territory, imder Mons. de Mont, as
forming a part of New France. By Henry IV., De
Mont was appointed governor of the district, extend-
ing from the fortieth to the forty-sixth degrees of
north latitude — ^that is, from Virginia to near the
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 59
head of Hudson's Bay, and which was then known
as La Cadie, To Poutrincourt, his associate in ad-
venture, De Mont granted that part of the district in
which they found the spacious harbour near the Bay
of Fundy, then called La baye Francois, and which
was now named Port EoyaL The grant to Poutrin-
court being confirmed by the King of France, a fort
was reared, which became the headquarters of the
French colonists. In 1613, on the ground of an
alleged encroachment on the English limits of Vir-
ginia, Captain, afterwards Sir Samuel Argall, seized
the fort, and dislodged the French. Of this proceed-
ing, no complaint was made by the government of
France, nor at the time did it attract any special
notice from the court of England.
On the 3d November 1620, Sir Frederick Gorges,
governor of New Plymouth, received from King
James the famous patent by which forty English
subjects, incorporated as '' The Council for planting,
ruling, and governing New England," obtained pos-
session of a territory extending from the fortieth to
the forty-eighth degree of north latitude, and from
the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific. The colonists
found on their northern frontier some French
colonists who professed the Romish faith, and on
their behalf Sir Frederick Gorges entreated the Eng-
lish government to proceed to their dislodgment.
On this subject James VL consulted his ''philoso-
phical poet," who considered the opportunity favour-
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60 MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OF STIRLING.
able for his personal enterprise. In a work issued
some time afterwards, Sir William Alexander, refer-
ring to his fiurst cotmection with the scheme, thus
wrote: ''Being much encouraged hereimto by Sir
Ferdinando Gorge and some utheris of the under-
takers for New England, I shew them that my
countrymen would never adventure in such an enter-
prise, unless it were as there was a New France, a
New Spaine, and a New England, that they might
likewise have a New Scotland."
Resolving to attempt a settlement in Canadian
territory, Sir William Alexander obtained the royal
sanction that his field of operation should be desig-
nated New Scotland. The company of New Ply-
mouth having made the necessary surrender. Sir
William procured a royal grant of that vast district
on the mainland to the east of the river St Croix and
south of the St Lawrence, lying between the colonies
of New England and Newfoundland. In the follow-
ing royal letter, dated 5th August 1621, King James
communicated his royal purpose to the Scottish
Privy Council
"J AMES R
" Eight trusty and welbdoued Cosens and Counsellours, and
right trusty and welbdoued Counsellours, Wee greete you well
Haueing euer beene ready to embrace anie good occasion whereby
the honor or proffete of that our Eingdome might be advanced^
and considering that no kynd of conquest can be more easie
and innocent than that which doth proceede from Flantationes,
specially in a countrey commodious for men to live in, yet
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 61
remayneing altogither desert, or at least onely inhabited by
Infidells, the conversion of whom to the Christian fayth (in-
tended by this meanes) might tend much to the glory of God ;
since sundry other Kingdomes, as likewyse this our Kingdome
of late, vertuously aduentring in this kynd, haue renued their
names, imposeing them thus vpon new lands, considering (praysed
to God) how populous that our Kingdome is at this present, and
what necessity there is of some good meanes wherby ydle
people might be employed preventing worse courses. Wee think
there are manie that might be spared who may be fitt for such
a forraine Flantatioun, being of mynds as resolute and of bodyes
as able to overcome the difficulties that such aduenturers must
at first encounter with as anie other Nation whatsoeuer, and
such an enterprise is the more fitt for that our Eingdome it
doth craue the transportation of nothing from thence, but only
men, women, cattle, and victualls, and not of money, and maie
giue a good retume of other commodityes, affording the meanes
of a new trade at this tyme when traffique is so much decayed.
For the causes abouespecifeit. Wee haue the more willingly
barkened to a motion made vnto vs by o' trusty and wellbeloued
Counsellour, Sir William Alexander, Knight, who hath a purpose
to procure a forraine Plantation, haueing made choice of landes
lying betweene our Colonies of New England and Newfound-
land, both the Gouemours whereof haue encouraged him there-
unto ; therefore that he and such as will vndertake with him by
getting of good security maie be the better enabled hereunto,
Our pleasure is, that after due consideratione, if you find this
course, as Wee haue conceaved it to be, for the good of that our
Kingdome, That yow graunt vnto the sayd Sir William, his heires
and assignes, or to anie other that will joyne with him in the
whole, or in any part thereof, a Signatour vnder our Great Scale
of the sayd lands lying betweene New England and Newfound-
land, as he shall designe them particularely vnto yow, To be
holden of vs from our Kingdome of Scotland as a part thereof,
united therwith by anie such tenure, and as freely as yow shall
finde vs to haue formerly granted in the like case here, or that
yow shall think fitt for the good of the sayd plantation, with as
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62 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OP STIRLING.
great priuiledges and fauours for his and their benefite both by
sea and land, and with as much power to him and his heires
and their deputyes, to inhabite, gouerne, and dispose of the sayd
lands, as hath at anie tyme bene graunted by vs heretofore to
anie of our subjects whatsoeuer for anie forraine plantatioun, or
that hath beene graunted by anie Christian prince of anie other
Kingdome for the like cause, in giueing authority, power, benefite,
or bono' within the bounds to be plaunted to them, or by war-
ranting them to conferre the like vpon anie particular enteiT>ryser
there who shall deserue the samen, adding any further condi-
tiones for the furtherance hereof as yow shall think requisite,
and that the said Signatour be past and exped with all expedi-
tion : And likewise Our pleasure is, that you giue all the lawfall
ayde that can be afforded for furthering of this enterpryse,
which Wee' will esteeme as good seruice done to vs ; for doing
wherof these presents shall be your warrant From our Court at
Beauer, the 5th of August 1621."
This letter was indorsed :
•* To our Eight trusty and welbeloued Cozen and Counsellour,
the Earle of Dumfermling, oure Chancellour of Scotland ; And to
our right trusty and welbeloued Counsellours the remanent Earles,
Lords, and others of our Privy Councell of our sayd Kingdome."
The Privy Council having acceded to the royal
request, a warrant for a charter was granted at
Windsor Castle on the 10th September 1621.* On
the 29th day of the same month a charter passed
under the Great Seal, appointing Sir William Alex-
ander hereditary lieutenant of the new colony. In
face of the patent was denoted the importance of the
transaction; the initial letter contained portraits of
the king and his lieutenant, the former seated on his
throne, and in the act of handing the charter to the
* See Appendix No. I.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 63
latter. The border of the instrument was decorated
with embellishments, illustrating the customs and
productions of the colony. In the opinion of Horace
Walpole, the illustrations were executed by Edward
Norgate, an accomplished illuminator, who was at
this period employed to decorate the initial letters of
the patents of the nobility and the commissions of
ambassadors.*
Having obtained his patent, Sir William entered
into an arrangement with his friend. Sir Robert
Grordon of Lochinvar, by means of which the latter
obtained possession of the territory at Cape Breton,
originally included in the province of New Scotland.
To this territory, styled the barony of New Galloway,
Sir Robert Gordon and Robert, his second son, ob-
tained a royal charter, dated 8th November 1621.
In March 1622 Sir William Alexander provided a
ship at London, which he sent round the coast to
Kirkcudbright. There he hoped, through the influ-
ence of Sir Robert Gordon, whose lands lay in the
district, to recruit a body of emigrants. The induce-
ments held out were inconsiderable. Purchasers of
land only were to have any right in the soil. Farmers
might obtain leases. The lieutenant-general was,
after a specified time, to receive a thirteenth portion
of the land revenues. Artisans were to receive free
holdings, but during their lives only. None possess-
* Edward Norgate died at the College of Arms on the 28d December 1650
(Horace Walpole's Anecdotes of Painting, Lond. 1871, 12mo» p. 121).
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64 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
ing ordinary comforts at home were likely to incur
the risk of migrating to unexplored wastes on induce-
ments so meagre. Only one artisan, a blacksmith,
and one educated person, a Presbyterian minister,
consented to join the expedition. The other emi-
grants were agricultural labourers of the lowest
grade. There was a further drawback. Provisions
had lately increased in price, and the means of pro-
curing them were proportionally diminished. The
vessel, however, weighed anchor in the end of June,
proceeding first to the Isle of Man. The voyage was
resumed early in August, and about the middle of
September the emigrants sighted St Peter's Island,
to the south of Newfoundland. Sailing westward,
they approached the shore of Cape Breton, but were
by a storm driven back to Newfoundland, where they
sought refuge in the harbour of St John. There
they resolved to pass the winter, while the vessel
was despatched to Britain for new supplies (Sir Wil-
liam Alexander's Encouragement to Colonies).
These experiences, discouraging as they were, did
not depress the ardour of the lieutenant-general A
ship, the '' St Luke," was in the end of March des-
patched from London with additional colonists and
needful supplies. By contrary winds the vessel was
detained at Plymouth till the 28th of April, and it
did not reach St John's harbour till the 5th of Jime.
About eight months had passed since the Scottish
emigrants landed at that port. The clergyman and
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the mechanic were both dead. The others were
scattered — ^a portion earning a scanty subsistence as
fishermen (Encouragement to Colonies).
Dreaming of approaching prosperity, the Lieu-
tenant of New Scotland added to his family estate.
He purchased the lands of Tillicoultry, bordering
Menstry on the west, borrowing the purchase
money from Walter Cowan, an opulent burgess of
Stirling, who on the 25th June 1623 received from
him, '' with consent of Andro Alexander, his father's
brother," an acknowledgment of the loan; Cowan
was also '' infeft with Walter his eldest son in an
annual rent of 700 merks furth of the lands of Tulli-
coultrie, under reversion " (Reg. of Deeds, vol. 874).
Meanwhile the voyagers in the "St Luke" were
endeavouring to bear up against absolute failure.
Ten of their number were selected to proceed to New
Scotland, there to fix on a suitable place for planting
a colony. On the 23d June these persons sailed
from St John, but, impeded by fogs and contrary
winds, they did not see land for two weeks; they
afterwards sailed along the coast, which they partially
surveyed. Beaching Port de Mouton, they, in its
vicinity, discovered three harbours, in one of which,
four leagues west of Port Mouton, they landed, nam-
ing the spot St Luke's Bay. Two leagues further to
the west they found another harbour, with a fine
river, known as Port Jolly. Having coasted twelve
leagues further, they terminated their explorations at
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66 MEMORIALS OF TH£ EARL OF STIRLING.
Port Negro. On their return they further examined
Port de Mouton, and then hastened to Newfound-
land. The '' St Luke " shipped a cargo of fish for
the home voyage, and finding other vessels, the ex-
plorers returned to England (Encouragement to
Colonies, and Slafter's American Colonisation, pp.
46, 47).
By these two expeditions. Sir William Alexander,
instead of increasing his fortune, sustained serious
loss. That loss was estimated at £6000 sterling, and
for its re-payment a royal warrant was directed to
the Exchequer. Meanwhile Sir William resolved to
persevere steadily with his undertaking. In 1624 he
issued a small work, dedicated to Prince Charles,
entitled "An Encouragement to Colonies," and
accompanied with a map of New Scotland. In this
publication he traced the history of colonial enterprise
from the period of the sons of Noah, through the
Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans, to recent times.
The discovery of America, he maintained, was a call
of Providence to Britain to extend her boundaries by
occupying the new country. He commended Spanish
enterprise in effecting transatlantic settlements. He
celebrated King James in checking rebellion and
restoring tranquillity in Ireland, and expressed a hope
that the dignity of his sceptre would be further
maintained by the plantation of New Scotland.
Colonists would, he remarked, be enabled to carry
into unexplored tracts the civilising influences of
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 67
British culture, and the elevating doctrines of the
Christian faith. In glowing terms he expatiated
on the success which had attended the colony of
New England and the plantation of Virginia. De-
picting the region of New Scotland, Sir William
described '' the very delecate meadowes " " with roses
white and red/' and " the very good fat earth " which
the voyagers in the " St Luke " had found along the
coast. In poetical language he remarked that the
territory of which he was lieutenant, invited occupa-
tion like the infant earth, its rich grain and fowls,
and fishes, all inducing early occupation. Appealing
to Scotland, he said that like a bee-hive it yearly
sent forth swarms of her people, who heretofore had
expended their energies in foreign war. Now Scots-
men were invited to settle in a new country, where
the merchant might prosecute successful commerce ;
the sportsman enjoy abundant recreation, and the
Christian have ample scope for missionary enterprise.
The lieutenant-general proceeded :
"Where was euer Ambition baited with greater hopes then
here, or where euer had^ Yertue so large a field to reape the
fruites of Glory, since any man who doth goe thither of good
qnalitie, able at first to transport a hundred persons with him
furnished with things necessary, shall haue as much Bounds as
may serue for a great Man, wherevpon hee may build a Towne
of his owne, giuing it what forme or name he will, and being the
first Founder of a new estate, which a pleasing industry may
quickly bring to a perfection, may leaue a faire inheritance to
his posteritie, who shall daime vnto him as the Author of their
Nohilitie there, rather then to any of his Ancestours that had
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68 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
preceded him, though neuer so nobly borne elsewhere. . . .
And as no one man could accomplish such a Worke by his own
priuate fortunes, so if it shall please his Maiestie (as he hath
euer been disposed for the furthering of all good Works more
for the benefit of his subjects, then for his owne particular) to
giue his helpe accustomed for matters of lesse moment hereunto,
making it appeare to be a Worke of his own, that others of his
subjects may be induced to cduerse in such a common cause, no
man could haue had my charge that with more affection and
sinceritie should have vsed his endeuours for discharging of the
same, but I must trust to be supplyed by some publike helps,
such as hath beene had in other parts, for the like cause where-
unto, as I doubt not but many will be willing out of the noble-
nesse of their disposition for the aduancing of so worthy a
Worke, so I hope will some others, the rather out of their priuate
respect to me, who shall continue as I haue heretofore done,
both to doe and write in so farre, as so meane an abilitie as mine
may reach, what (I conceive) may proue for the credit or benefit
of my Nation, to whom I wish aU happinesse."
" The Encouragement to Colonies " failed to arouse
any colonial ardour, and the English Treasury
refused to make compensation for a loss in which
they had no concern. To eflfect his purpose, the
Lieutenant of New Scotland fell upon a new method.
Since his accession to the English throne, King James
had systematically replenished his royal revenues by
the sale of titles. In July 1603 a smnmons was
issued at Hampton Court, charging all who owned
land to the value of £40 a-year to proceed to the
royal presence to receive knighthood, or to compound
with the king's conmiissioners (Rymer's Foedera,
xvi. 529). About the same period, the king pro-
posed to constitute an order of Golden Knights,
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BiEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 69
that is, to bestow knighthood on all who would dis-
burse £300, to be expended by Sir Bevis Bulmer in
a search for gold mines (Atkinson's Discoverie of
the Gold Mynes). He devised a more advanced
scheme in 1611, when, to further the colonisation of
Ireland, he created an order of knights baronets.
These received their honours on paying into exchequer
a sum equal to £1100, while the number of creations
was restricted to two hundred ; and the candidates
were expected to possess a land rental of £1000.
Though styled baronets of Ulster, the new hereditary
knights were English landowners, and wholly dis-
connected with the country from which they obtained
their titles. Their eldest sons were ordinary knights
(Royal Decree respecting Baronets, 28th May 1612).
These precedents, especially the last, suggested to
Sir William Alexander a mode by which he might
accomplish his undertaking, and relieve his embar-
rassments. From 1611 to 1622, 205 English land-
owners had become baronets of Ulster, with a benefit
to the Exchequer of £225,000. On terms less costly,
Sir William estimated that Scottish landowners, or
the younger sons of the nobility, might enrol them-
selves in a new order — ^the Baronets of New Scot-
land. Accordingly, on his recommendation, a royal
letter was issued from his Majesty's Court at Roy-
stoun, informing the Privy Council of Scotland that
the king had resolved to make the colonisation of
New Scotland a work of his own, and in connection
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70 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
therewith to establish an order of baronets. The
Privy Council were invited to assist in carrying out
the royal intention, and instructed to oflFer no opposi-
tion to it (Reg. Sec. Con., " Royal Letters ").
Under the guidance of Sir William Alexander, the
Scottish Privy Council approved the royal order ; and
in the following letter proceeded to indicate a scheme
whereby the royal intentions might be fully accom-
plished :
"Most Sacred SouEEiiNB.
" We haue considerit of your Maiestie's letter concerning the
Barronettis, and doe therby peisave your Maiestie's great affec*
tioun towards this your ancient Kingdome, and your Maiestie'ti
most judicious consideratioun in makeing choise of so excellent
meanes, both noble and fitt for the goode of the same, wherein
seing your Maiestie micht haue proceidit without our advyce,
and imacquenting vs with your Maiestie's royall resolutioun
therein, we are so muche the more boundin to rander vnto your
Maiestie our most humble thankes for your gracious respect
vnto vs, not onlie in this, but in all vther thinges importing
this estate outher in credite or profit And we humblie wisse
that this honour of Barronet sould be conferrit vpoun none but
vpon Knichtis and Gentlemen of chiefe respect for their birth,
place, or fortounes, and we haue taken a course by Proclama-
tioun to mak this your Maiestie's gracious intentione to be
publicklie knowen that non heirafter prsetending ignorance take
occasion inwardlie to complejme as being neglected, bot may
accuse thameselffis for neglecting of so fair an opportunitia
And whereas we are given to vnderstand that the country of
New Scotland being dividit in twa Provinces, and cache pro-
vince in severall Dioceises or Bishoprikis, and cache diocese in
thrie counteyis, and cache countey into ten Baroneyis, every
baronie being thrie mile long vpon the coast, and ten myle vp
into the countrie, dividit into sex parochies, and cache paroche
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
71
Gontening sax thousand aikars of land ; and that everie Baronett
is to be ane Barone of some one or other of the saidis Barroneis,
and is to haif therein ten thowsand aikars of propertie, besidis
his sax thowsand aikars belongeing to his bur* (burgh) of baronie,
To be holdin free blanshe, and in a free baronie of your Maiestie
as the baronies of this Kingdome, ffor the onlie setting furth of sex
men towardis your Maiestie's Bojall Colonie, armed, apparelld,
and yictualld for two yeares, And everie Baronet paying Sir
William Alexander, Knicht^ ane thousand merkis Scottis money
only towards his past charges and endevouris: Thsdrfore our
humble desire vnto your Maiestie is, that care be taken by
suirtie actit in the bookis of Secreit Counsall, as was in the
Plantatioun of Vlster, that the^said nomber of men may be dewlie
transported thither, with all provisions necessar, and that no
Baronet be maid but onlie for that cause. And by some such
one particular course onlie as your Maiestie sail appointe, And
that Articles of Plantatioun may be set furth for encouraging
and induceing all others who hes habilitie and resolutioun to
transport themselfBis hence for so noble a purpose.
''Last we consave that if some of the Englishe who ar best
acquainted with such forrayn enterpreises wald joyne with the
saidis Baronetts heir (as it is likelie the lyker conditioun and
proportioun of ground wald induce thame to doe), that it wald
be ane grite encouragement to the furtherance of that Eoyall
worke quhilk is worth(ie) of your Maiestie's care, And we doubte
not sindrie will contribute their help heirvnto. So exspecting
your Maiestie's forder directioun, and humblie submitting our
opinione to your Maiestie's incomparable iudgement. We hum-
blie tak our leave, prayeing the Almichtie God to blisse your
Maiestie with a long and happie Beigne. From Edinburgh, the
23 of November 1624
" (Sic subscribitur) Geo. Hat. Lattderdaill.
Mar.
St Androis.
MORTOUN.
Linlithgow.
Melros.
L. Areskine.
Carnegie.
b. dumblane.
A. Naper.
S. (W.) Oliphant;
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72 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
On the 30th November 1624 the Scottish Privy
Council issued the following proclamation :
"At Edinburgh, the last day of November, The yeir of God
1600 Tuentie-four yearifl. — Our Souerane Lord being formarlie
gratiouslie pleased to erect the heritable honnour and title of
ane Baronet as ane degree, state, and place, nixt and immediatlie
following the younger sones of Yicounts and Lordis Baronis of
Parliament, as ane new honnour whairwith to rewaird new
meritis, Haveing conferrit the same honnour, place, and dignitie
upoun sondrie of the Knights and Esquyris of Ingland and
Ireland, to thame and thair airis maill for ever. In considera-
tioun of thair help and assistance toward that happie and sue-
cessfull plantatioun of Ulster in Ireland, To the grite strenth
of that his Maiestie's Elingdome, incresse of his Hienes' revenues,
and help to manie of his Majestie's goode subjects. And quhairas
our said Soverane Lord being no les hopefull of the plantatioun of
New Scotland in the narrest pairt of America alreadie discovered
and surveyed be some of the subjects of his Majestie's King-
dome of Scotland, joyning unto New Ingland, quhairin a grite
pairt of his Hienes' nobilitie, gentrie, and burrowis of Ingland
are particularlie interessed and hes actuallie begun thair severall
Plantatiouns thairof ; And for that conceaving that manie his
Majestie's subjects of this his ancient Kingdome, emulating the
vertews and industrious interpryssis of utheris, And being of
bodies and constitutions most able and fitt to undergoe the
Plantatioun thairof and propagatioun of Christiane religion, will
not be deficient in anie thing quhilk may ather advance his
Majestie's Koyall intentioun towards that Plantatioun, or be
beneficiall and honnourable to this his Hienes' ancient King-
dome in generall, or to thameselffis in particular; The samyn
being ane fitt, warrandable and convenient means to disburding
this his Majestie's said ancient Kingdome of all such younger
brether and meane gentlemen quhois moyens ar short of thair
birth, worth, or mjmdis, who otherwayes most be troublesome to
the houses and freindis from whence they ar descendit (the
common ruynes of most of the ancient families), Or betak
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 73
thameselffis to forren warke or baisser chifts, to the discredite of
thair ancestouris and contrey, And to the grite losse of manie
of his Majestie's goode subjects who may be better preservit to
his Hienes' use, honnour of thair freindis, and thair awne com-
fort and subsistence, gif transplantit to the said cuntrey of New
Scotland, most worthie and most easie to be plantit with Chris-
tiane people, and most habill by the fertilitie and multitude of
commodities of sea and land, to furnish all things necessarie to
manteine thair estaitis and dignitie as Landslordis thairof, and
subjects to his Majestic, to be governed by the Lawis of this his
ancient Eingdome of Scotland. And our said Soverane Lord
being most willing and desyreous that this his said ancient
Eingdome participate of all such othens honnouris and dignities
as ar erected in anie of his Majestie's otheris Kingdomes, To
the effect that the Grentrie of this his Hienes' said ancient Eing-
dome of Scotland may both haif thair dew abrood among the
subjects of utheris his Majestie's Eingdomes, and at home among
thameselffis, according to thair degree and dignitie. As alsua
his Majestic being most graciouslie pleasit to confer the said
honnour of heretable Baronet as ane speciall mark of his Heighnes'
princelie favour upoun the Ejiights and Esquyris of principall
respect for thair birth, worth, and fortouns, Togidder with laige
proportionis of Landis within the said cuntrey of New Scotland,
who sail be generouslie pleasit to set furth some men in his
Hienes' Boyall Colonie, nixt going thither for that plantation :
Thairfore his Majestic ordaines his Hienes' lettres to be direct,
chaigeing Herauldis, Pursevantis, and Messengeris of Armes to
pas to the Mercat cros of Edinburgh, and vtheris placeis neidfuU,
and thair, be oppin proclamatioun, to mak publicatioun of the
premises. And that it is his Majestie's princelie pleasure and
expres resolutioun to mak and creat the nomber of ane hun-
dreth heretable Baronettis of this his Hienes' Eingdome of Scot-
land be patentes vnder his Majestie's grite scale thairof. Who
and thair airis maill sail haif plaice and precedencie nixt and
immediatlie after the youngest sones of the Yicountes and
Lordis Barronnis of Parliament, and the addition of the word
Sir to be prefixed to thair propper name, and the style and title
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74 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
of Baxonett subjoyned to the surname of everie ane of thame,
and thair airis maill, Togither with the appellatioun of Ladle,
Madame, and Dame to thair Wyffis, in all tyme comeing, with
precedencie befoir all otheris knights alsweil of the Bath, as
Knights Bachelouris and Bannarettis (except those onlie that
beis Knighted be his Majestie, his airis and successonris, in
proper persone in ane oppen feild, with banner displayed with
new additioun to thair armes and haill vtheris prserogatives
formarlie grantit be our said Soverane Lord to the saidis
Baronettis of Ingland and Ireland conforme to the printed
patent thairof in all pojmts). And that no persone or personis
whatsumevir sail be created and maid Baronettis, bot onlie such
principall Knights and Esquyris as will be generouslie pleasit
to be Undertakeris of the said Plantatioun of New Scotland,
And for that effect to act thameselfis, or some sufficient caution-
eris for thame, in the buikis of Secreit Counsall befoir the first
day of Apryll nixt to come in this insuing yeare of God 1625
yearis. To set furth sex sufficient men artificeris or laboureris
sufficientlie armeit, apparrelit, and victuallit for tua yeiris,
towards his Majestie's Royall Colonic to be established, Ood
willing, thair, for his Hienes' use dureing that space, and that
within the space of year and day efter the dait of the said Actis,
under the pane of tua thowsand merkis usual money of this
realme."
The proclamation proceeded to recapitulate the
proposals made in the Privy Council's letter to the
king as to the payment to be made by intending
undertakers to the lieutenant-general, and invited
all who sought to possess lands in New Scotland,
along with the title and dignity of baronet, to repair
for enrolment, either personally or by agent, to the
Lords of the Council (Reg. Sec. Con. Acta; Jan.
1621, Mar. 1625, foL 218). Though issued by the
Scottish Privy Council, the two preceding documents
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 75
were composed by the lieutenant-general Ingenuity
seemed to have exhausted itself in depicting the
importance of the new colony, and the honours and
advantages awaiting those who aided its settlement.
At the same time the remuneration of the lieutenant-
general was set forth somewhat too prominently.
The entire failure of the late expedition also proved
a source of discouragement. Thus the months of
winter and spring passed on, while the appeal to
undertakers made on the 30th November evoked
no response.
A collapse of his undertaking would have proved,
to Sir William Alexander, disastrous and overwhelm-
ing. He therefore renewed his appeal, and on this
occasion in the form of a royal mandate. This in-
strumait, dated 23d March 1624-5, informed candi-
dates for baronetcies that th^ should negotiate either
with himself personally, or in his absence, with his
friend and deputy. Sir John Scott, Knight. The pro-
posal that each undertaker should hand to the lieu-
tenant-general a thousand merks to meet his past
losses, was omitted, while the sum of two thousand
merks previously mentioned as purchase money, was,
it was stated, to be strictly applied to colonial pur-
poses. In evidence of the sincerity of this promise,
it was further stipulated that the baronets or under-
takers might appoint certain of their number to
superintend the application of the funds.
The operations of the lieutenant-general were again
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76 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
retarded ; for, on Sunday the 27th March, just four
days after the date of the royal missive appointing
him and Sir John Scott to deal with intending under-
takers, King James expired at London. Proceedings
were suspended in reference to colonial matters till
the 28th of May, when three persons, under Sir
William Alexander's direction, were appointed un-
dertakers, and created baronets. These were Sir
Robert Gordon, Knight, son of Alexander, Earl of
Sutherland ; William, Earl Marischal ; and Alexander
Strachan, of Strachan, Kincardineshire. On the fol-
lowing day five others were added to the roll, these
being Sir Duncan Campbell of Glenurquhie, Knight,
Robert Innes of Innes, Sir John Wemyss of Wemyss,
Knight, David Livingstone of Dunipace, and Sir
Robert Douglas of Glenbervie (Reg. Precep. Cart,
pro Baronettis Nov. Scotise).
According to the new arrangement, the lands in-
cluded in the baronies of New Scotland were re-
signed by Sir William Alexander into the hands of
the king, who regranted them to the knights
baronets. Thus the lands and titles were obtained
directly from the sovereign. It was also provided
that infeftment in the lands should be expede at
Edinburgh Castle (Reg. of Letters).
The patent constituting Sir William Alexander
Lieutenant of New Scotland, though approved by the
Scottish Privy Council, had not been ratified by Par-
liament, the Estates not having assembled between
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OP STIRLING. 77
the date of its issue and the close of the late reign.
A charter of novodamus was now granted to Sir
William by Charles I., and which, on the 12th July
1625, passed under the Great Seal ; * in it the former
charter was recited, with additional clauses respect-
ing the order of baronets,t and a promise made that
the former grant would be confirmed by Parliament
(Reg. Mag. Sig., Ub. li., 23). On the 19th day
of the same month the king informed the Privy
Council that certain baronets of New Scotland had
been created, to each of whom he had granted
territory in that country, six miles in length by three
in breadth. His Majesty further authorised the
Council to confer baronetcies on intending under-
takers, without subjecting them to the inconvenience
of proceeding to London, so that a colony might be
despatched to New Scotland in the following spring.
The Privy Council were warned to maintain the pre-
cedency due to baronets, and to punish those who
might attempt to disturb it (Reg. of Letters).
Proceeding on his Majesty's letter, the Privy
Council issued, on the 81st August, the following
proclamation :
"ApudEdinburg.,
"PemUtimo die mensis Atigusti 1625.
^ Foisameikle as our Souerane Lordis umquhile dearest
Father, of blessed memorie, for diverse goode ressonis and con-
sidderationis moveing his Majestie, and speciallie for the better
encouragement of his Hienis' subjectis of this his ancient King-
* See Appendix Ko. II. t The order was restricted to one hundred and fifty.
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78 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
dome of Scotland, towardis the plantatioun of New Scotland in
America, being graciouslie pleased to creat the heretable dignitie
and title of Baronet, as a degree of honour, within the said King-
dome (as formerlie he had done in England for the plantatioun
of Ylster in Ireland), and being of intentioun to confer the said
title and hounour of Barronet onlie vpoun suche his Ma^ sub-
jectis of the said ancient Kingdome of Scotland as wald be
vndertakeris and furtheraris of the Plantatioun of New Scot-
land, and performe the conditionis appoyntit for thet eflPect,
causit publict proclamatioun to be maid att the Mercat Croce
of Edinburgh, be advise of his Ma** Counsell of the said King-
dome, geving notice to the cheifif gentrie, and all his Mat***
subjectis 'of that Blingdome, of his Royall intentioun concerning
the creatting of Barronettis, and conferring the said title and
hounour vpon suche personis as his Mat** should think ex-
pedient, having performed the conditionis appoyntit for the said
Plantatioun, To the efifect the cheifest Knightis and Gentlemen
of the Kingdome haveing notice of his Mat*** princelie resolu-
tioun, might (if they pleasit, be Vndertakeris in the said Planta-
tioun, and performe the appoyntit conditions), be first preferred
be his Mat**, and haue the said heretable hounour and title con-
ferred vpoun thame and their aires maill for ever, or otherwayes
be ther awne neglect and default want the sama And now»
our Souerane Lord, being most carefull and desireous that his
said umquhile dearest Fathens resolutioun tak effect for the
weale of this his said Kingdome, and the better furtherance of
the said Plantatioun, and otheris goode consideratiounis move-
ing his Hienis, His Mat** hath already conferred the said here-
table hounour and title of Barronnet vpoun diverse his Mat***
subjectis of this his said Kingdome, of goode parentage, meanis,
and qualitie, as grantit chartouris to thame and their airis maill
for evir vnder the Grit Scale of the said Kingdome, conteining
his Ma' grant vnto thame of the said dignitie, and of the par-
ticular landis and boundis of New Scotland, designit vnto thame,
and diverse liberties and priviledgeis conteinit in thair saidis
patentis, and is of the intentioun to grant the like to otheris ; and
for the better furtherance of the said Plantatioun, and to per-
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M£MORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 79
forme the conditionis appoyntit for that efifect, and to half the
said hounour and title conferred vpoun thame may not be
hinderit nor delayit be going to Court to procure from his Mat^
thair severall patentis and grantis of the said dignity and landis
in New Scotland to be grantit to thame, but may haif the same
heir in Scotland, with less truble to his Mat^^ and chargis and
expenssis to thamselffis, His Mat^, of his royall and princelie
power and speciall favour, hathe gevin and grantit a commission
and full power to select a nomber of the Nobilitie and Counsell
of this Kingdome, whose names are pc^icularlie therein insert,
or ony five of thame, the Chancellair, Thesaurair, and Secretair,
being thrie of the five to ressaue resignationis of all landis
within New Scotland, whilk sal happin to be resignit be Sir
William Alexander, Knight, Maister of Eequestes to his Matf*
for the said Sangdome, and his Ma" Lieutenant of New Scotland,
in favouris of whatsomevir personis, and to grant patentis and
infeftmentis thairof again to thame, together with the said here-
table hounour and title, they haveing alwayes first performed to
the said Sir William Alexander, his aires or assignayis, thair
laughfall commissionaris or procuratouris haveing there powers,
the conditionis appoyntit for the fartherance of the said Planta-
tioun, and bringing thame a certificat thairof in write under the
handis of the said Sir Williame or his forsaidis, to be shewn and
producit before the saidis commissionaris. And his Maf* haveing
Ukewayes gevin informatioun to the Lordis of his Secreit Counsell
of this Kingdome to certifie his subjectis thereof concerning his
princelie will and pleasure anent the place due to the Barronettis
and Enightis of the said Kingdome, Thairfore the saidis Lordis
of Secreit Counsell, to the effect that nane pretend ignorance,
Ordanis letters to be direct charging herauldis and officiaris of
armeis to pas to the mercat croce of Edinburgh, and all otheris
placeis neidfull, and mak publict intimatioun to all his Mat'
leiges and subjectis of this kingdome. That all suche as intend
to be Barronnettis and Yndertakeris in the said Plantatioun, and
to performe to the said Sir Williame, or his forsaidis, the Con-
ditionis appoyntit for the furtherance of the said Plantatioun;
and hauing a Certificat vnder his hand as said is, may repair and
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80 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
resort to the saidis Commissionaris at all tymes convenient, and
ressaue grantis and patentis from thame vnder the Grite Seale of
this Kingdome of the landis of New Scotland to be resignit in
thair favouris to the said Sir Williame, or his foirsaidis, with
the like liberties and priviledgeis and otheris whatsoevir as ar
grantit to the Barronettis abeadie madd in thair patentis alreadie
past vnder the said Grite Seale, and of the said heretable title
and honour of Barronett to thame, and thair aires maill for
evir, and tak place and precedence according to the dates of
their severall patentis to be grantit to thame, and no otherwayes.
And in like manor to mak publicatioun that his Ma' princelie
will and pleasure is, That the Barronettis of this Kingdome maid \
and to be maid, haif, hald, tak, and enjoy, in all tyme comeing
freelie, btU ony impediment, the place, prioritie, and precedence
in all respectis grantit to thame in thair severall patentis vnder
the ssdd Grite Seale, and that no Knight, Laird, Esquire, or
Gentleman whatsoevir, who is not a Barronett, presoome, in ony
conventioun or meeting, or at any tyme, place, or occasioun what-
soevir, to tak place, praecedence, prseeminence befoir ony who is, <
or who sal heirafter be maid, a Baronet, neyther ony who is not a
Knight tak place befoir ony who hathe the honour to be a Knight,
thairby inverting the ordour vsed in all civile pairtis. Certifieing
all lus Ma' leigeis and subjectis of this his Kingdome, and everie
ane of thame who sal praesoome to do in the contrair heirof,
That thay sail be most seveirlie punist be his Mat** and the
saidis Lordis of his Counsell, as manifest comtempnans of his
MatP royall power and prserogative, and thereby geving occasioun
to disturb the publict peace.
" Subscribitur ut supra,
" Geo. Canoell. Eoxburgh.
MOBTOUN. MELROa
WiNTOUN. LaUDERDAILL."
(Beg. of Letters.) Buccleugh.
Hitherto the Lieutenant of New Scotland had not
much profited by the sale of lands or baronetcies. \
With the consent of the king, he inaugurated another
it
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 81
enterprise, which promised him no inconsiderable
emolument. In composing his metrical version of the
Psalms, which he intended to supersede the versions
used by the Churches both of England and Scotland,
the late king had consulted Sir William, but in his
desire to be original, and yet to avail himself of the
suggestions of the Menstry poet, his translation had
so lagged that at the period of his death thirty-one
psalms only were completed (Bishop Williams*
Funeral Sermon on King James). The paucity of
King James' psalms, and their unsuitableness for
congregational use, were, however, not generally
known — and resolving to complete the translation
and assign it to the deceased sovereign. Sir, William
proceeded to initiate a movement for reaping the
proceeds. In the king's name he addressed to Arch-
bishop Spotswood of St Andrews the following letter :
"Eight, &c. Whereas it pleased our late deare father of
famous and etemall memorie, considdeiing how imperfect the
Psalms in meeter presentlie used are, out of his zeale to the
glorie of God and for the good of all his Churches within his
dominions, to translate them of new. Therefore as wee have
given commandement to o' trustie and welbeloved Sir William
Alexander, knight, to considder and view the meeter and poisie
thereof. So our pleasure is that you cause some of the most
learned daines (divines) within that our kingdome conserve
them with the originall text, and with the most exact transla-
tions, and thereafter certifie both your opinions unto us con-
cerning the same, whether it be fitting that they be published
and sunge in churches in stead of the old Translation or not. To
the intent that wee may neglect no thing so much importing the
memorie of our said late deare father, and farre lesse if you find
F
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82 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
that it may tend to the advancement of the glorie of God. And
recommending the samen to your earnest care. — Wee ara
" WiNDSORE, the 25th of August 1625" (Reg. of Letters).
Privately working at his translation of the Psalms,
Sir William continued to urge his colonial enterprise.
He experienced unexpected opposition, for at a con-
vention of the Estates, held at Edinburgh in November
1626, the small barons presented a memorial, com-
plaining that the precedency granted to the new order
of baronets interfered with their hereditary dignities,
and was otherwise unjustified. By a majority, the
Estates approved the sentiments of the memorialists,
and a resolution to that eflfect was prepared for sub-
mission to the king. Embodied in the records of
Parliament, the memorial was by the Privy Council
transmitted to his Majesty. At great length the
Estates set forth that, whereas Sir William Alexander
had alleged that the precedency of the baronets was
essential to his undertaking, they held such an asser-
tion to be unwarranted, and oflFered, in the event of
the plantation of the colony being found expedient,
to carry it out vrtthout charge or honorary recompense
(Acta Pari. Scot., vol. v., pp. 185-188).
The Estates offered to do what they well knew
they could not accomplish, nor would even seri-
ously attempt. But the rapid advancement of a
small landowner at court had moved them with
jealousy and indignation. Their leader was Thomas
Hamilton, Earl of Melrose, a favourite of the late
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 83
king, and who now held office as principal secretary.
His interference was followed by his summary eject-
ment from office, while the lieutenant-general was
nominated to his post. To the Vice-Chancellor of
Scotland, the king notified the new appointment in
these terms :
" Eight trustie, &c. Whereas having long experience, both
during the tyme of our late deere father & in our tyme, of the
sufficiencie of our trustie & wel beloved counselloor. Sir William
Alexander, knig*, for our service, we have made choyce of him to
be our Secretarie attending us at courte. Our pleasure is, that
you cause all the packets that come from our counsell there con-
tyning the affaires of that our kingdom to be directed imto him,
that he may acquaint us therewith, and that you cause expede
his grant of the said ofllce through the seails whensoever it
comes to your hands with all diligence,* for doing whereof these
presents shall be unto you a sufficient warrand.
** Whythall, the 28 qfJamuirii 1625-6" (Reg. of Letters).
In crushing an opponent. Sir William Alexander
suddenly attained a pitch of greatness. Lieutenant-
General of New Scotland, he also bore rule in the old
kingdom. His determination to maintain his order of
baronets, and uphold his prerogative, is evinced in
the following royal letter which he despatched to the
Estates :
" (Charles R)
"Eight trustie and weilbeloved Counsellour, Eight trustie
* The diligence exercised was very ordinary, for Sir William Alexander's
appointment as "principal secretary for life on demission of Thomas, Earl of
Haddington," was not recorded in the Register of the Great Seal, till the 20th
October 1627, or nearly two years after the date of the warrant (Reg. Mag.
Sig. , ii. 489). The Earl of Melrose exchanged his title for that of Earl of
Haddington, which was confirmed to him by patent on the 18th October 1627.
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84 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
and weilbeloved Oousines and Oounsellours, Bight trostie and
weilbeloved Counsellours, and trustie and weilbdoved Counsel-
lours, We Greet you weilL Whereas our late deare Father did
determjnie the Creating of Knyghts Barronetts within that our
Kingdome, haveing first had the advyse of his Privie Counsall
therevnto, whose congratulatorie approbation may appear by a
letter'of thanks sent vnto him thairefter, And seeing the whole
gentrie war adverteised of this his Eoyall resolutioun by publict
proclamationis, that these of the best sort, knowing the same,
might have tyme to begin firsts and be preferred vnto vthers, or
then want the said honour in their awin default, a competent
tyme being appoynted vnto them by the said Counsall that they
might the more advysedlie resolve with them selflBs therein. In
consideratioun whairof we wer pleased to give a commission
vnder our great seall, whereby the saidis Knights Barronetts,
might be created according to the conditions formerlie conde-
scendit vpoun. And heirafter hearing that sindrie gentlemen of
the best sort wer admitted to the said dignitie, we never haveing
heard of aney complaynt against the same till the work efter
this maner was broght to perfection, it could not bot seeme
strange vnto us that aney therefter should have presented such
a petition as wes given to the last Conventioun, so much deroga-
torie to our Boyall prserogative, and to the hindering of so
worthie a work, or that the samyne should have bene counten-
anced or suffered to have been farther prosecuted, Now, to the
effect that the said work may have no hinderance heirefter, our
pleasur is that the course so advysedlie prescryved by us, to the
effect foirsaid, may be publectlie knowen of new, waiming the
said gentrie that they may either procure the said dignitie for
them selffis, or not repyne at others for doeing the same. And
that you have a speciall care that none of the saidis Knyghts
Barronetts be wronged in ther previledgeis, by punisching aney
persone who dar presum to doe aney thing contrairie to ther
grants as a manifest contemner of our authoritie and disturbour
of the publict peace. And if it sail happin heirefter that the
said Commission, by the death or change of aney persones
appoynted Commissioneris to this effect, shall need be renewed.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 85
Our further pleasur is, that at the desyre of our trustie and
weilbelovit Counsellour, Sir William Alexander, Kny*, our
Secretarie, or his aires» the same be given of new to the Com-
missioneris of our Excheker, the Chancellour, Thesaurer, or Thes-
aurer deputie, or aney tuo of them, being alwyse of the number,
giveing them such power in all respects as is conteyned in the
former Commission, with this addition onlie that we doe heirby
authorize our Chancellour for the tyme being, to Knyght the
eldest sones of the saidis Knyghts Baronets, being of perfite
aige and 21 Zeires, he being requyred to that effect And we
will that a clause, bearing the lyk power, be particularlie insert
in the said new Commission, if vpoun the caussis foirsaid it be
renewed, And that the samyne by our said Chancellour, be
accordinglie performed. So we bid, &c.
" Whythall, February 12, 1626" (Reg. of Letters).
Though the wishes of Scottish barons, as expressed
both through Parliament and the Privy Council, had
been rejected, it was found inexpedient wholly to
disregard public sentiment in the north. The last
creation of baronets had occurred on the 28th De-
cember; and unless conciliatory measures were
adopted, an obstructive policy in Scotland might, it
was felt, retard the appearance of applicants for the
new dignity. So the Earl of Melrose was assured,
by a royal letter dated 24th March, that he had not
been deprived " by sinistrous suggestions and calum-
nies of informers," but owing to the necessity that
the king experienced of havmg a secretary for Scot-
tish afifairs resident at court. He was also informed
that the change in the secretaryship should not
otherwise ''derogate from his grant or priviledge"
(Register of Letters). On the same day a royal
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86 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
letter was addressed to the chancellor, Sir George
Hay of Kinfauns (afterwards Earl of Kinnoull),
authorising him to confer knighthood on the eldest
sons of baronets, ''without putting them to aney
charges " (Reg. of Letters).
There were other grumblers. Of these the most
conspicuous was Sir John Stuart of Traquair, subse-
quently Earl of Traquair. As a leader of the Estates,
he had steadily resisted the precedence assigned to
New Scotland baronets; he was, in the following
royal letter, commanded to assume the title he had
affected to despise :
" To THE Laird of Traquair.
" Trustie and weilbeloved, &c. We, &c. Though ther have
bene warning gevin to all the gentrie of that our Kingdome by
publict proclamation, that thay might in dew tyme come to be
creatted Knyght Barrounettis, and not compleane heirefter
of vtheris befoir whom they might expect to have place wer
preferred vnto them, yet we have thoght fitt to tak particular
notice of yow. And the rather becaus it would seeme that yow
not knowing or mistaking our intention in a matter so much
concerning our royall praerogative for the furthering of so noble
a work, did seik to hinder the same. Therefor Our pleasur is,
that yow with diligence embrace the said dignitye, and performe
the conditionis as others doe, or that yow expect to be heard no
more in that purpois, nor that yow compleane no more heirefter
of others to be preferred vnto yow. So not doubting but that
bothe by your seliBF and with others yow will vse your best
meanes for furthering of this work, wherby you may doe to ws
acceptable service. We bid, &c.
" Whythall, 24 March 1626."
Two other malcontents, the Laird of Waughton
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OP STIRLING. 87
and the Laird of Wemyss, also received summonses.
The former was informed that his being willing to
receive a baronetcy, would do his sovereign " accept-
able pleasure;" while the Laird of Wemyss was
assured that his accepting a baronetcy would prove
" a stepp to a further title." These commands,
though proceeding in the king's name, bore evidence
of their origin too closely to eflfect the intended
purpose. Both '' the lairds " refused the proffered
titles.
Sir William Alexander persisted vigorously. Con-
sequent on a royal warrant, dated 12th of February,
the Privy Council issued, on the 30th March, the
following proclamation :
" Apud Halyrudhous, Penultimo Martii 1626.
"Forsamekle as our Soverane Lordis umquhile darrest Father,
of blissed and famous memorie, out of his princelie and tender
regaird of the honnour and credite of this his ancient kingdome
of Scotland, And for the better encourageing of the gentrie of
the said Kingdome, in imitatioun of the vertuous projectis and
enterprises of otheris, to vndertak the Plantatioun of New Scot-
land in America, determined, with advise of the Lordis of his
Privie Counsell, the creating of ane new heretable title of dignitie
within the said Kingdome callit Knight Barronet, and to confer
the same vpoun suche personis of goode parentaige, meanis and
qualitie, as wald be vndertakeris in the said Plantatioun. And
of this his Eoyall and princelie resolution, importing so far the
honnour and credite of the Elingdome, publicatioun and intima-
tioun wes maid be open proclamatioun, with all solempnitie
requisite, to the intent those of the best not knawing the same
might haif had tyme first to begin and to haif bene preferrit to
otheris. And then through ther awne default or negligence the
want of the said honnour to haif bene imputt to thameseUGis,
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88 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Like as a competent tyme wes appoyntit and assignit be the
saidis Lordis vnto thame for that elBfect, whairthrow they might
the more advisedlie haif resolved thairin. And oure Souerane
Lord, following his said darrest Fatheiis resolutionis in this poynt,
causit not onlie renew the said Proclamatioun, Bot for the ease
of his Ma* subjectis and sanMng of thame irom neidles and
unnacessair travell^ chargeis, and expenssis^ grantit ane com-
mission vnder his Grite Seale, whairby the saidis Eiiightis Bar-
ronettis might be created and thair patentis exped in this King-
dome, like as accordinglie sundrie Gentlemen of the best sort
embraced the conditioun of the Plantatioun, wer admittit to the
said dignitie of Barronet, and no question or objectioun wes
moved aganis the same till the worke wes brought to a per-
fectioun, then some of the gentrie repynning at the praecedencie
done to thir Bsuronettis, whilk proceidit vpon thair awin sleughe
and negligence in not tymous imbraceing the conditionis of the
said Plantatioun, They maid some publick oppositioun aganis
the precedencie done to thir Barronettis, and so did what in
thame lay to haif hinderit the Plantatioun foirsaid ; whairof in-
formatioun being maid to his Mat*®, and his Mat** considdering
the goode and necessar groundis whairby first his said darrest
Father and then himself wer moved to creat the dignitie and
ordour foirsaid of Barronettis, and his Mat" continewing in a
firme and constant purpois and resolutioun that the worke foir-
said sail yett go fordward and no hindrance maid thairvnto,
Thairfore his Mat*®, with advyse of the Lordis of his Secreit
CounseU, ordanis letters to be direct chargeing Officieris of armes
to pas to the Mercat Croce of Edinburgh and otheris places
neidfull, and thair be opin publicatioun mak said publicatioun
and intimatioun of his Ma" royall will and pleasur that the
course so advysedlie prescryued be his Mat*® to the effect foirsaid
sail be yitt followit oute; And thairfore to waime all and
sundrie the gentrie of this kingdome. That thay either procure
the said dignitie for thameselfl&s Or not repyne at otheris for
doing of the same. And to command, charge and inhibite all and
sindrie his Ma' leiges and subjects that nane of thame presoome
nor tak vpoun hand to wrong the saidis Knightis Barronettis in
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MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OP STIRLING. 89
ony of thair priviledgeis, nor to doe nor attempt ony thing
contrair to tliair grantis and patentis, Certifieing thame that sail
fidlzie or doe in the contrair. That thay salbe punist as con-
tempnaris of his Ma" inclinatioun, and disturbaris of the pubUck
peace " (Eeg. of Letters).
An early adventurer in the plantation of New-
foundland was Sir William Vaughan,* younger
brother of Sir John Vaughan of Golden Grove,
Caennarthenshire, afterwards Earl of Carberry. Sir
William Vaughan was LL.D. of Oxford, and a poet
and elegant scholar, but, like his contemporary. Sir
William Alexander, he was also ambitious of political
distinction. Obtaining from James I. a grant of
land at the south-eastern angle of Newfoundland,
he styled the same Cambriol, and there planting a
Welsh colony, for some years resided in the settle-
ment. Visiting London in the spring of 1626, Sir
William Alexander invited him to an interview. In
a work, entitled ''The Golden Fleece,"t published the
same year, Vaughan has expressed the substance of
Sir William Alexander's conversation in these words :
" This learned knight, with a joyful countenance and alacrity
of mind, taking me by the hand, thus began : ^ I have oftentimes
wished to confer with you, but until this present I could not
* Sir William Vaughan was born at Golden Grove, Caermarthenshire, in 1577.
He became a commoner of Jesns CoUege, Oxford, in 1691. Among his publi-
cations are "Varia Poemata de Sphseramm Ordine," Lond. 1589 ; ''Cantionm
Ganticomm Salomonis," 1597 ; ** Poemata continent Econ Roberti Comitis Essex,"
1698; "The Golden Grove," 1600 ; "Directions for Health," 1617.
t The Golden Fleece, transported from CambrioU Colchos out of the southern-
most port of the island, commonly caUed the New-found-land. By Orpheus
Juoior. Lond. 1626. 4to.
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90 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
find the opportunity. It is necessary, and this necessity jumps
with the sympathy of our Constellations (for I think we were
both bom under the same Horoscope), that we advise and devise
some Project for the proceedings and successful managing of
our plantations. As you obtained a Patent of the Southernmost
part of Newfoundland and transplanted thither some of your
countrymen of Wales, baptising the same by the name of Cam-
brioU; so have I got a Patent of the neighbouring Country unto
yours Westward beyond Cape Breton, Christening it New
Scotland. You have spent much, and so have I, in advancing
these hopeful Adventures.
"* But as yet neither of us (sic T) arrived at the Haven of our
expectations. Only, like a wary Politician, you suspend your
breath for a time, until you repair your losses sustained by some
of Sir Walter Ealeigh's Company in their return from Guiana ;
while your neighbours, the Right Honourable the Lord Viscount
Falkland, and my Lord Baltimore, to whom you assigned the
Northerly part of your Grant, do undergo the whole burden, sup-
porting it with brave resolution, and a great deal of expense,
which otherwise you were obliged to performe. The like incon-
veniences I have felt, even in the infancy of my attempt;
whether the effects proceeded through the late season of the
year, when we set out the Colony ; or by the slowness of our
people, who, wearied in their passage at sea, by reason of con-
trary winds, rested themselves too long at St John's Harbour,
and at my Lord of Baltimore's plantation, I knowe not; but sure
I am, it cost me and my friends very dear, and brought us into
much decrements ; and hath well nigh disheartened my poor
Countrymen, if, at my humble suit, our most Noble and Generous
King Charles had not, out of lus Boyal magnificence and
respective care to us and our Posterities, restored and revived
our courages, by conferring such monies as might arise by the
creation of Knights Baronets in Scotland, towards the erecting
of this new Fabrick and heroical Action. And yet I fear all this
will not sufi&ce and defray the charge.
*" Li such abundance doth my native Country of Scotland over-
swarm with people, that, if new habitations be not suddenly
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 91
provided for them, as Hives for Bees, they must either miscarry
of want, or turn Drones unprofitable to the Owner, as you well
remembered in your Poetical works which you termed " Cam-
brensium Caroleia."
** Si nova non apibns condas, Bex, alvea; Fnci
Ignavi fient, neo tibi lucra ferent."
« * We need not complain, with our Saviour in the Gospel, that
the Harvest is great and the Labourers few ; for we have many
Labourers which would willingly manure this maiden soil, and
with the painful sweat of their brows reap what they sow. But
the charge of transporting them, with such implements and
domestical cattle, as must be had now at the first, cannot but
grow to an excessive cost. To expect more helps than it pleased
our most bountiful King already to bestow upon us, will be in
vain, I doubt, considering the scarcity of money in these days,
which not only in Scotland, but likewise all his Majesty's Dom-
inions do afi&rm to be true. The native and genuine salt of the
earth, which fructified our Cornfields with so many infinite
ploughings of our Ancestors, and ours, is spent ; nor will lime
or Marie ever recover them to the pristine and antient vigour
and fertility. English Cloth, which heretofore was dignified with
the title of the Grolden Fleece, grows out of request, yea (and
with inward grief I speak it), in contempt also among the Owners
and Inhabitants themselves. Our Tin, Lead, and Coal Mines
b^in to fail. Our Woods which Nature produced, and our
Fathers left us for firing, for reparations of decayed Houses,
Ploughs and Shipping, are lately wasted by the Covetousness of a
few Ironmasters. What, then, remains in this famous Isle?
Except we relieve our Wants by Navigation, and these must be
by Fishing by hook or by crook, by Letters of Mart, by way of
reprisals or revenge, or else by Traffick and Commerce with
other Nations besides Spaniards. I would we could invent and
hit upon some profitable means for the settling of these glorious
works, whereto it seems the divine Providence hath elected us
as instruments under our Earthly Soveraigne.' "
In the summer of 1626, Sir William Alexander
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92 MEMORIAL OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
began to arrange an expedition for the next spring.
His intention is notified in the following royal letter
addressed to the Privy Council :
" (Chakles R.)
" Eight, &c. Haveing considered your letter concerning the
fees that ar clamed from the Knyght Bauronets, thogh at the
first it did appear vnto us that none could justlie challenge fees
of them by verteu of any grant that was given before that ordour
was erected, yet befoir we would resolve what was to be done
heirin, we caused enquyre of the cheff heraulds and other officers
within this our kingdome, wher the said dignitie of Barronet was
first instituted by our late dear Father : And doe find that the
barronets are bund to pay no feyis, nor did pay evir any thing
at all save that which they did voluntarlie to the heraulds, of
whome they had present vse. And therfor, seeing ther creation
within that our kingdome is for so good a cans, wherby a Colony
is making readie for setting farth this next Spring to begin a
work that may tend so much to the honnour and benefite of that
kingdome, we would have them everie way to be encouraged,
and not, as we wryt befoir, putt to neidles charges; and our
pleasur is, that none as Baronetts to be made be bund to pay
feys bot what they shalbe pleased to doe out of ther owin discre-
tion to the heraulds, or to any suche officiers of whom they shall
have vse. And as for ther eldest sones, whensoever any of them
is cum to perfyte aige and desyps to be knighted, let them pay
the feyis allowed hertofor to be payed by other knightis.
" For doeing wherof, We, &c.
" Oatlandis, 28 July 1626 " (Eeg. of Letters).
Having furthered his arrangements. Sir William
announced to the Privy Council in January that a
small fleet which should proceed to his new colony
was in active preparation. The letter to the Council
is in these terms :
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BfEMORIALS OP THE EARL OP STIRLING. 93
" (Charles R)
* Whereas Sir William Alexander, Kny*, our Secretarie for
Scotland, haueing gevin band to the Ejayght barronetts of that
onre Kingdome, that of all such money as he hath, or is to receave
from them, he shall imploy the just two parts thairof for setting
forth a Colony for the plantatioun of New Scotland, which is to
be estimated and considered according to the conditions agreed
vpon betweene him and the said knyghts baronets. And the
said Sir William haueing for performeing his part prepared a
schip, with ordinance, mimition, and all other fomitour necessar
for hir, as lykwyse another schip of great burden, which lyeth at
Dumbartane, togidder with sindrie other provisions necessarie
for so far a voyadge and so great work therfoir, that the treuth
thairof may be publicklie knowen, and that all such monnyis as
he hath disbursed heirvpon may be trewlie summed up. Our
pleasur is, that haueing surveyed the said schip, yow estimat
and value hir to the worth, as lykwyes other furniture and pro-
visions that yow find in hir, or to be sent with hir for this pur-
pois ; and with all his charges he hath bene heir for the same,
and thairefter that yow delyver vnto him a trew Inventure and
Estimat therof vnder your hands, that it may heirefter serve for
clearing his accompts with the said Ejayght Barronetts, and for
haueing the same allowed vnto him by them, &c.
« Whythall, 17 Ja\ 1627 " (K^. of Letters).
In the preceding letter. Sir William obviously
refers to the general belief that in creating baronets
he merely sought to retrieve his losses, and had no
actual intention of proceeding with his colonial en-
terprise. To further prove his sincerity, he, on the
17th January, made a formal application to the Earl
of Totnes, Master of the English Ordnance, for a
supply of certain guns, — ^viz., '^ 16 Minner, 4 saker,
and 6 falcor ; " these he desired to be sent to Dum-
barton (Reg. of Letters).
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94 MEMOKIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
To meet the cost of the new expedition, money
was urgently required. No portion of the sum of
£6000, for repayment of which Sir William held a
royal warrant, had been discharged, and it became
expedient that a new eflfort should be made for its
recovery. At his instance, the king directed to Sir
James BaiUie, the Scottish Treasurer of Marine, the
following missive :
" Whereas Sir William Alexander, o^ Secretarie for Scotland,
had a Warrant from our late dear Father, which is ratified by us
to 0* Trer. of England, for payment of the soume of Six thousand
pounds sterling, which lang since was intended to have bane
payed here; but seeing now it may be more convenientlie done
out of this casuellcommoditie, wherewith Wee have appointed yow
to intromett : Our pleasure is, and Wee will you to pay vnto the
said Sir William, or his assignes, the said soume of Six thousand
pounds sterling, and that out of the first readiest moneyes that
you haue or shall receaue for our part of the prises taken or to be
taken within that our kingdome, for doing whereof these puts,
shall be vnto you a sufficient warrant.
" Given at o' Court at Whitehall, the 19 of January 1627.
" To o' trustie and weil beloued S'^ James Baillie, Tresaurer of
o' Marine Causes within that o' Kingdome of Scotland."
(Reg. of Letters).
The preceding royal letter to the Scottish Trea-
surer of Marine was followed, at the interval of a
week, by a letter to the Earl Marischal in these
terms:
" (Charles R)
" Right, &c. Whereas our late deare Father was pleased to
creat knyght Barronetts in Scotland, as he had done in his vther
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 96
kingdomes^ and that for a honourabile cans, by enlargeing the
Christiane fayth and our dominions. And we understand that
sindrie of the most ancient gentrie embraceing the said dignitie
have payed these moneyis condescendit vpon for, their part
towards the plantation of New Scotland. Thogji ther have
bene sufficient warning gevin to all the gentrie of that our king-
dome, baith in the time of our said late dear Father and in ours,
notwithstanding it be in our power frielie to conferre honour
vpon any of our subjects as we in our judgment shall think they
deserve, yet out of our gratious favour we ar willing that everie
ane of the said gentrie have the place which may be thoght due
vnto them in so far as can clearlie be discerned, or otherways
that they be inexcusable by neglecting so fair ane opportunitie
as by this meanes is presented vnto them, and considering that
it doeth most properlie belong to your charge, as Marschell, to
judge of ranks and precedencie, thoght it be difficult to knowe
wher so many ar of equal qualitie, yet to the efiFect that they be
ranked in some measur as neir as can be that place which may
be thoght to be their due, Our pleasur is, that assumeing to
your selff such assessours here present as you shaU think requi-
site, you condescend vpon such a number as ypw and they shall
think fitt to be barronetts, ranking them as you shall think ex-
pedient, that out of that number the barronetts limited by the
Commission may be selected to the effect we may pass ther sig-
natures accordinglie ; so that by embraceing the said place in due
tyme we may mak vse of this our gratious favour and otherwyse
least our trustie and weilbeloved Sir William Alexander, our
Secretar, who is our Lieutenant of the said Cuntrie, and who
besyds he is now to sett furth in this Spring, hath bene at great
charges hertofor in the work of that Plantation, should be dis-
sabled from prosecuting of that purpois, we ar willing that he
proceed with such others as yow shall think fitt to maneteane
that dignitie, for Wee desyre that the ancient gentrie may be first
preferred; but if they, by neglecting so noble ane interpryse,
shall not mak vse of our favour in this, we think it good reasone
that these persones who have succeeded to good estates, or ac-
quyred them by ther owin industrie, and ar generouslie disposed
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96 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
to concurre with our said servand in this Interpiyse, should be
preferred to the said dignitie, and to this effect, that yow mak
them in maner abovespecifeit, haueing for your better proceed-
ing herein, appoynted a Eoll to be given yow of diverse of the
names of the said gentrie as ar knowen to be of qualitie, which
were considered by yow in maner foresaid ; and haueing selected
such of them as yow shall find to be most fitt for this purpois,
that yow sett down a roll of them in ordour and rank vnder
your own hand, to be schawin vnto ws. And so, &c.
" Hampton Court, the 26 of Ja^. 1627."
This letter was accompanied by a roll containing
the names of ''the ancient gentry," and of those
''who had succeeded to good estates, or acquired
them through industry." On the 3d March, the im-
portance of promoting the creation of baronets was
urged upon the Privy Council in the following mis-
sive :
" (Charles R)
" Eight, &a Wheras, by direction from ws, a survey hath
bene made of diverse provisions and necessaries to be sent this
Spring by our trustie and weilbeloved Counsellonr, Sir William
Alexander our Secretarie, for the vse of a Colony to be pknted
in New Scotland, wherby it doeth evidentlie appear, as is
reported bak vnto ws by tiie survegheris, that the said Sir Wil-
liam hath bene at much more charges than as yit he hath re-
ceived moneyis from the Elnyght Barronetts of that our Kingdome,
who hath condescended, according to ther several! bands made to
him, for advancing of such moneyis towardis the said plantation,
so that of the number of persones condescended vpon by our late
dear Father, and approved by ws, to have the style of Knyght
Barronettfl, should not be fullie compleit, or if that tymelie satis-
faction be not gevin, according to their bandis, that hopefull
work, so much recommended to ws by our said Father and ws, is
lyklie to desert; and our said servand, who hath bene first and
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 97
last at so great charges therm, vtterlie vndone in his esteat.
And in regard by reasone of our service heir that his absence
from thence wilbe a great hinderance to the bringing of this
purpois of the Barronetts to perfection, we have thoght good
heirby to desyre yow, whois effectual assistance we ar confident
may much conduce to this purpois, that yow may vse your best
[endeavours], both in privat and publict, as yow shall think most
fitt for bringing the said purpois to some perfection, when we
will expect your best endeavours, seeing it is a matter we speci-
allie respect.
" Newmabket, 3 March 1 627 " (Eeg. of Letters),
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CHAPTER IV.
MEMOIR OF SIR WILLIAM ALEXANDER — FROM THE SAIL-
ING OF HIS SECOND EXPEDITION TO NEW SCOTLAND
TO THE ABANDONMENT OF PORT ROYAL.
Though described in a royal letter as '' utterlie vn-
done in his esteat/' the Lieutenant of New Scotland
actively prepared his fleet. The progress of his opera-
tions is reported in the following letter addressed by
the king to the Earl of Marlborough, High Treasurer
of England :
''10 March 1627.
"(Charles R)
" Bight, &c. Whereas the good shipp called the Eagle, of the
burthen of one hundreth and 20 tunnes, or thereabouts, now
lying in the Biver of Thames (whereof Ninian Barclay is cap-
taine), is loaden with powder, ordonance, and other provisions,
for the vse of a plantation, ordained to be made in New Scot-
land, by our speciall direction, and for the vse of ane other
shippe, of the burthen of 300 tunnes, now lying at Dumbartan,
in Scotland, which is likewise to goe for the said plantation of
New Scotland : Our pleasure is, that you give order to all whom
it concemeth, that the said shippe, with all her provisions, fur-
niture, and loading, as being for our own particular service, may
pass from the river of Thames without paying custome, sub-
sidie, or any other duetie, and free from any other lett or impedi-
ment : And for your so doeing, this shalbe your sufficient war-
rant.
" Theobaldes, the 10 o/Merche 1627.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 99
"To our right trustie and welbeloved cousin and counsellor,
the Earle of Marleborrough, our heigh Tressurer of Eng-
land*'
An unexpected impediment arose, Andrew Baxter,
an adventurous Scotsman, had offered, in his ship the
''Morning Star," to accompany Sir William Alex-
ander's emigrant ship, the " Eagle," in her voyage to
New Scotland. But Baxter was in debt, and his
creditors, fearing utter disaster to his property,
arrested his vessel in the Dover Roads. Sir William
applied to Mr Edward Nicholls, Secretary of the
Admiralty, begging him to give help. His letter
proceeds thus :
*• S*. — ^There is a Shipp called the Morning Starre which is
tyed in consort to attend a Shippe of mine in her intended voy-
age to Nova Scotia to doe his Ma*** Service (which I know you
are not ignorant of), the which shipp is now stayed lying in
Dover Boad, and not willing to depart vntill suche tyme as she
be released by his Cr* (Creditors): the Mr" name is Andrew
Baxter, who is readie to attend to his Cr* demands and directions
att all occasions. I doe therfore intreate you that you will doe
me that favo' to move his Cr* conceminge the rdeeise of the
said shipp, seeing it ooncernethe his Mat^ service so much, the
staye whereof will be the overthrowne of this voyage : ffor which
fevor I shall be ready to doe you the like courtesie when any
the like occasion of yours shall present. In the mean tyme I
rest Yo' lovinge fifriend, Wm. Alexander.
« Whitehall, this m of April 1627.
*'This Shipp was cleered a fortnight before the restraynt to
goe in Mr intended voyage.
*'To my very worthy and much respected ffiriend, Mr Edward
NidioUs, Secretarie ffor the Admeraltie for the Lord
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100 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Duke of Buckinghame " (Colonial Papers Calendar,
p. 84).
Of Andrew Baxter and his ship we are not further
informed. Meanwhile Sir William Alexander was
alarmed by gloomy and eventful tidings. On the
counsel of Cardinal Richelieu, the French had de-
termined to re-assert their title to La Cadie, a terri-
tory which embraced every portion of New Scotland.
The cardinal had formed the Company of New
France, otherwise styled the Hundred Associates,
^by which Port Royal was to be occupied, and planted
with several hundred tradesmen as pioneers ; there-
after one thousand colonists were to be despatched
to the country every year. Captain David Kertch, a
French Calvinist, who communicated this intelligence,
undertook, if intrusted with the command of Sir
William's fleet, to oppose the cardinal and his pro-
jected settlement. His services being accepted, he
recommended that Sir William should be constituted
Admiral, as well as Lieutenant, of New Scotland.
The royal commission for this purpose was readily
procured. Sir William, as Admiral of New Scotland,
receiving power to ''seize vessels belonging to the
King of Spain, the Infanta Isabella, or others, the
king's enemies" (Colonial Papers Calendar, p. 84).
No special authority was given to contend with the
French, as, notwithstanding the evil rumours, the
two countries were in perfect amity.
Captain Kertch was named Depute-Admiral, with
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 101
all the powers vested in his chief. With a small
force, he attacked the French squadron, which he de-
feated, securing as prizes eighteen transports, with
135 pieces of ordnance destined for the fortification
of Port Eoyal and Quebec (Haliburton's Nova
Scotia, vol. i., p. 43). The tidings of this success
gave a prestige to Sir William Alexander's colonial
scheme which it had not attained heretofore. Be-
tween the 18th October 1627 and the 22d February
1627-8, fourteen patents of baronetcy were issued and
recorded. Sir William applied the proceeds in char-
tering vessels. Further to indicate his earnestness in
the undertaking, he intimated that his eldest son
would accompany the fleet.
To a young man of superior culture and consider-
able energy, the prospect of opening up a new field
for colonial enterprise was no doubt attractive.
William Alexander the younger was introduced at
court, and honoured with knighthood. Constituted
Knight Admiral of New Scotland, a seal for his
special use was, by authority of the Scottish Privy
Council, prepared by Charles Dickieson, "sinkear
of his Majesteis ymes." This seal the Privy Council
instructed, was to display
*' A shippe with all her ornaments and apparrelling, the mayne
saile onelie displayed with the annes of New Scotland, bearing a
Saltoire with ane scutcheon of the ancient annes of Scotland, and
vpon the head of the said shippe careing ane vnicome sittand,
and ane savage man standing vpoun the steme, both bearing
St Androes Croce."
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102 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
It was to have the following legend :
" Sigillum Gulielmi Alexandri Militia Magni Admiralli Novi
Scotise " (Eeg. of Letters).
In command of a fleet of four vessels. Sir William
Alexander the younger proceeded to Scotland in the
end of March 1628. He bore the following missive :
« (Chaeles R)
" Whareas the four schippis, called the . . . belonging to
Sir William Alexander, "Knight, son to Sir Williame Alexander,
our Secretarie for Scotland ; whareof the . . . are to set
out towards Newfoundland, the Eiver of Canada, and New Scot-
land, for settling of Colonies in those partes, and for other thare
laufull effaires : Theis are, tharefore, to will and require you,
and everie one of you, to permitt and suffer the said schippes,
and everie one of them, with thare wholl fumeture, goods, mer-
chandice, schips companies, and planties, quietlie and peace-
abillie in thare going thither, returning from thence, or during
thare being furthe in any other parte whatsoever, till they shall
happin to returne to any of our dominiones, to pas by you,
without any of your lettes, stayes, troubles, imprestis of ther
men, or any other men, or any other hinderance whatsoever :
Whareof you shall not failL
" Whitehall, the 26 Ma/rch 1628 " (Reg. of Letters).
The fleet having moored on the Scottish coast,
many persons accepted bounties and then escaped.
The following manifesto was consequently issued by
the Privy Council :
" Apud Halyeudhous,
'^ Vicesimo tertio die mensis Aprilis 1628.
" Forsameekill as it is vnderstaud be the Lords of Secreit
Counsell that diuerse persons who wer conduced and tane on be
Sir WUhame Alexander, Knight, and his officiars, to have beene
transported be thame for the plantatioun of New Scotland, haue
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 103
most unworthilie abandoned that service and imployment, refuis-
ing to performe the conditionis of thar agreement^ To the dis-
appointing of that intendit Plantation which his Majestic so
eamestlie affects, fFor remedeing of which vndewtifuU dealing,
the saids Lords recommends to the Shireffs, Justices of peace,
and Proveists and Bailleis within burgh, and thairwith all giues
thame power and commissione, everie ane of thame, within thair
awin bounds and jurisdictioun, to take tryell of all and sindrie
persouns who, haueing covenanted with the said Sir WUliame
Alexander, or his officers, to goe with thame to New Scotland, haue
abandoned that service and runne away, and ather to compell
thame to performe the conditionis of thair agreement, or other-
wayes to doe justice vpon thame, according to the merite of thair
trespasse : And that the saide ShirefTs, Justices of peace, Provests,
and Bailleis within burgh concurre, countenance, and assist the
said Sir Williame Alexander and his officers in all and everie
thing that may furthet and aduance the service foresaids : And
for this efiect, that the said ShirefGs and others foresaids delyuer
the said persouns to the said Sir Williame Alexander and his
officers, it being first qualified that they have ressaued money
fifom the said Sir Williame and his officers, or that they haue
beene in service and enterteaned by thama**
The fleet left Scotland in May, carrying upwards
of seventy colonists, who were safely landed at Port
Boyal. Among the prisoners captured by Captain
Kertch, was Claude de La Tour, a person of some
fortune and considerable enterprise. From the
French Government he had lately obtained an ex-
tensive grant on the river St John, but being a Pro-
testant, he was not indisposed to meet the wishes
of his new masters (Haliburton's Nova Scotia, vol i.,
p. 43).
The success of Captain Kertch aroused the cupi-
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104 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
dity of not a few English adventurers, who sought
at court to procure a right of traflBcking with the
new colony. To defeat their eflforts. Sir William
Alexander the younger returned to Britain. We
have some particulars concerning him in the follow-
ing letter, despatched on the 23d November 1628,
by Mr William Maxwell of Edinburgh to Sir John
Maxwell of Pollok :
" It is for certaintie that Sir William Alexander is come home
againe &om Nova Scotia, and heath left behind him 70 men and
tua weemen, with provisioun to serve tham be the space of ane
yeir, being placet in a pairt of the countrie quhilk is a naturall
strenthe, togithir withe some cannoun, muskett, ponder, and
bullet, in caice of some snddent invasioun, togethir withe all
thingis necessar for thair present vse ; and is to goe hither againe
in the spring with a new plantatioun. Bot since he came home
the Englische men ar suiten of his Majestic to plant and pos-
sesse quhatsumever lands thairof q\ihilk they please, and there
to be halden of the Crowne of England Quhat salbe the event,
I know not" (The Maxwells of Pollok, edited by William
Fraser, voL ii, p. 200).
In the assertion of his privileges, Sir William
Alexander the elder communicated with the Scot-
tish Privy Council, entreating their support. Accord-
ingly, on the 28th November, that body addressed
a memorial to the king, setting forth that a petition
had been presented to them, '' in the name of some
interested in New Scotland and Canada," showing
that they had '' adventured soums of money for set-
ting fiirth of a colonic to plant there, and that they
understood that by reasoun of a voyage, made by ane
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 105
Captain Kercht thither this last sommer, there are
some making sute for a new patent to be held of the
Crown of England." The Council desired that the
original grant to Sir William Alexander, and the
undertakers under his authority, should be confirmed,
and that nothing should be done '' derogatory to their
ancient kingdom " (Reg. of Letters).
The English adventurers were frustrated, and a
royal patent was granted to Sir William Alexander
the younger, and others, incorporating them as '' sole
traders" in the Gulf and River of Canada. They
were further empowered to settle a plantation '' within
all parts of the gulf and river above those parts which
are over against Kebeck (Quebec) on the south side,
or above twelve leagues below Todowsack on the
north side," while all others were prohibited from
making any voyage into the said gulf or river, '' upon
payne of confiiscation." Sir William Alexander,
younger, and his friends, were also authorised to
''make prize of all French or Spanish ships and
goods at sea or land, and to displant the French."
This patent was accompanied with a special commis-
sion to Sir William Alexander and others, dated 4th
February 1629, by which they were empowered '' to
make a voyage into the Gulf and River of Canada,
and the parts adjacent, for the sole trade of beaver
wools, beaver skins, furs, hides, and skins of wild
beasts " (Colonial Papers, p. 96).
In his private affairs the lieutenant-general seemed
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106 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
on the verge of further prosperity. On the 27th
August 1627, he obtained a royal signature, which,
by prohibiting his docqueting any paper issuing in
the king's name without special authority, enabled
him to exact terms for completing transactions of
state. He was at the same time appointed Keeper of
the Signet, these duties being discharged by a deputy
at Edinburgh, while the dues were made payable to
himself (Eegister of Letters). By these arrange-
ments, no Scotsman could be introduced at court,
obtain a royal warrant, or pursue an action in the
Scottish law courts, without contributing to his
revenues. He obtained further emolument. James
Douglas, his predecessor as Scottish secretary at
court, had an allowance as aliment of '* three dishes."
But Douglas was a depute-secretary, whereas Sir
William was head of his department. By reason
of his superior dignity he was allowed, in commutar
tion, £500 per annum. The royal warrant, authoris-
ing the Earl of Pembroke, as Lord Chamberlain, to
make this payment, proceeds thus :
" Eight, &c. Whereas wee have appoynted o* trustie and
welbeloved servant Sir William Alexander, knight, o' Secretarie
for the kingdome of Scotland, to give his attendance and be
alwise resident in his own persone at o' Court for the dispatch
of such busines as shall happen concerning the affaires of o' said
kingdome, by meanes whereof and the continuall resort of many
persones of speciall note and qualite, the dyett of three dishes,
fbrmerlie allowed to James Douglas, who executed the seyd
place as deputie, will neither be competent nor for our honor to
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 107
be allowed to a person of that ranke and such as often tymes by
occasion shall resort unto his boord. It is therefore our will
and pleasure that the said dyett of three dishes shall from the
first day of October neaxt cease and determine, and that from
the seyd tyme, there be put forth and allowed unto him a dyett
or mess of meats of seven dishes everie meall according to the
usnaU faire of o' house, wherein because the charge contained
in a book lately by us signed for the establishment of o* house
wilbe somewhat increased. These are therefore to authorize
and appoynt you to direct your warrant to o"^ Attorney Generall
to prepaire a bill ready for our signature to passe our signet and
privie scale for the soume of fyve hundred punds more to be
added to the assignment of o' house out of o' customes and im-
post, the sayme to be payed to the cofferers or cofferer of o' house
for the tyme being everie Michaelmas time, for the defraying of
the charge of the sayd new dyett, so longe as the same shall
have continuanca And for soe doeing these shall be your war-
rant — Given at o' honor of Hampton Court, the day of
1627."
Anticipating the complete success of his Canadian
enterprise, the lieutenant-general resolved to estab-
lish 'a shipping port on the west coast of Scotland.
He accordingly obtained a royal charter of the lands
and muir of Largs, at the mouth of the river Clyde.
This charter, dated llth April 1627, set forth, that
whereas the lands of Largs and Largs Muir, and the
town and village of the same, belonged to the king,
as Prince and High Steward of Scotland, his
Majesty, ''considering the great and manifold ser-
vices rendered to his father and himself by his well-
beloved counsellor Sir William Alexander," more
especially '' his care, toils, and endeavours for estab-
lishing and founding his colony of America called
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108 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Nova Scotia," granted him and his heirs the whole
of the said territory, which was also erected into a
free barony, to be called the burgh of Largs. In
this charter, Sir William was further empowered to
build a free port and haven at Largs for '' advancing
trade and commerce" between Scotland and Nova
Scotia (Eeg. Mag. Sig., lii. 223).
Since the plantation of Ulster in 1609, several Ayr-
shire landowners had improved their shattered for-
tunes by acquiring lands in that province. These
lands were procured on almost nominal terms, the
recipients, or '' undertakers," becoming bound to pro-
tect their estates from the native Irish, and to plant
them with British operatives. It occurred to Sir
William Alexander that his intended port of Largs
might prove serviceable in shipping men and goods
both to New Scotland and Ulster. He accordingly
(on the 14th January 1627-8) accepted Irish citizen-
ship, with a grant of a thousand acres in the county
of Armagh. His grant included the lands of
'' MuUalelish, Ballyloghan, Ballyhinche, Ballylaney,
Ballibreak, MuUadroy, Dromnehunchin, Dromard,
Ballykedemore, Ballycagait, Durichele, Leggacony,
and others " (Records of the Rolls, Ireland, voL v.,
p. 107).
New Scotland proved a perpetual drain. By a
royal letter, dated 28th December, Sir James Baillie,
Marine Treasurer for Scotland, was empowered to
receive, as for the king, prize-money on captured
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 109
vessels, and to convey the same to Sir William
Alexander, till his claim for £6000 granted him by
the Crown was fully liquidated. Sir James was
further informed that Sir William had induced cer-
tain of his Majesty's subjects to increase the pro-
portion of prize-money payable to the Crown; and
he was called upon to induce others to pay propor-
tionally (Reg. of Letters). To this missive, Sir James
having made no response, he was, in a royal letter
addressed to the Commissioners of Exchequer, dated
23d May 1628, charged with having applied to
ordinary purposes the proceeds of the Lubeck ship,
instead of employing them in liquidating the sum due
to the Lieutenant of New Scotland. The Commis-
sioners were instructed to cause Sir James to pay Sir
William the balance of prize-money in his hand, with
all penalties imposed under an Act of the Estates,
passed in 1621. On behalf of the Commissioners
and Sir James BaiUie, Lord Napier, Treasurer-De-
pute, stated that various sums had been paid out of
the Exchequer, which ought to have been defirayed
by the English Treasury, and he demurred to further
exactions. His letter was forwarded to the High
Treasurer of England, who, on the 30th June 1628,
was required to consult with Sir William Alex-
ander, and thereafter to prepare a report. The
treasurer summarily dismissed the application, and
on the 11th July the Scottish Secretary intimated
to the Commissioners of Exchequer that he had
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110 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
been appointed one of their number (Reg. of
Letters).
It seems probable that during his autumnal visit to
Scotland, Sir William had unsuccessfully urged his
claim, for, on the 7th November 1628, the following
royal letter was transmitted to the Commissioners of
Exchequer :
« (Charles E.)
" Right, &c. Whareas wee were formerlie pleased to assigno
the payiuent of Sax Thousand punds Sterling, granted by our
late deare Father to our trustie and weel-beloved counsellare.
Sir William Alexander, our Secretarie, his airs and assignais, to
be paid out of the benefit arysing to ws out of the Pryses, or
concealed moneyis due by taxationis ; heaving hard from you how
convenient it wer that owr share of the Pryses, for the incres
of our custumes, should be lett out with them, according to that
overture made by John Peebles for farming of our custumes,
tending soe much to the advancing of our realme, which we
wish to be fordered; We ar pleased therewith: but withall,
that the said Sir William be not disappointed of that which
doeth rest vnto him vnpayed of the said grant ; Oure pleasour
is, that hesLving hard from Sir James Bailyee that the said Sir
William have resaved out of the said prises or otherwayis;
that you cans our receavers or custumers intromet with the said
part of the prises to our vse, after such maner as you shall think
expedient ; and that you give order, that the said Sir William,
his airs and assignais, may be payd out of our rentis, cuBtumes,
and casualties, or conceilment foirsaids, of the said remainder ;
as likewayis in consideration of his long want of the samen of
that part of the Pryse wines due vnto ws, which he should
haif hade, bot was giuen for payment of the mariners: ffor
doeing whairoff, & ffor securing him thareof in any maner you
shall think it fitt, these presents shalbe vnto you a sufficient
warrant.
" Whithall, the 7 of November 1628."
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MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OF STIRLING. Ill
The Scottish Exchequer made no sign. The poet
Robert Hayman^ believing that the grant was paid,
celebrated the supposed recipient in these terms :
" To THB Eight Hoxovrable Knight, Sir William ALEXAin)]SR, Pbinoipall
It PsiMs Planter in New-Scotland; To whom the Kino hath
QITJEN A RoTALL GIFT TO DEFRAY HIS GREAT CHARGES IN THAT WORTHY
BUSINXS.
" Great Alexander wept and made sad mone
Because there was but one World to be wonne ;
It joyes my beart, when such wise men as yon
Conquer new Worlds, which that Youth neuer knew.
The King of Kings assist, blesse you from Heauen,
For our King hath you wise assistance giuen;
Wisely our King did aide on you bestow.
Wise are all Kings who all their Gifts giue so.
Tis giuen well, that is giuen to such a One
For seruice done, or seruice to be done ;
By all that know you 'tis well ynderstood.
You will dispend it for your Countrie's good.
Old Scotland you made happy by your birth,
New Scotland you will make a happy earth."
**T0 THE 8AMS WlSE» LEARNED, BeLIGIOITS PATRIOT, AND MoST EXCELLENT
Poet.
"You are a Poet ; better ther's not any.
You have one super-vertue 'mongst your many :
I wish I were your equall in the one,
And in the other your Companion.
With one I'd giue you your deserued due.
And with the other seme and follow you."
(B. Hayman's Quodlibets. Lond. 1628, book ii, p. 85).
In acquiring land, and projecting a shipping port
on the coast of Ayrshire, Sir William Alexander
had been much encouraged by James Stewart, fifth
Lord Ochiltree, who, till recent embarrassments, had
taken actire part in the colonisation of Ulster. In
the hope of retrieving his shattered fortune^ Lord
Ochiltree consented to join Sir William Alexander
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112 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
the younger in his second expedition to New Scot-
land. In May 1629, Charles I. authorised £500
sterling to be borrowed for his lordship's use, *'in
his present expedition to Cape Bretton, fbr planting
of a colony there " (Reg. of Letters). He sailed in
June, and landed with his followers at Cape Breton
(Colonial Papers, p. 106).
With considerable prosperity at home, and good
prospects abroad, the Scottish Secretary proceeded to
consolidate and enlarge his family estate. On the
30th July 1628, he obtained a charter from Archibald,
Lord of Lome, granting him and his spouse the lands
and barony of Menstry, on an annual payment of £80
Scots (Reg. Mag. Sig., lii. 151). By a charter under
the Great Seal, on the 31st July 1629 he received
the lands and barony of Tullibody, adjoining the lands
of Menstry on the south and east (Reg. Mag. Sig., lii.
222).
The creation of baronets was resumed. On the
2d May 1629, a commission was granted to the
Earl of Menteith, President of the Council, and to
Sir William Alexander the elder, and Sir Archibald
Acheson, Under Secretary of State, to expede the
passing of New Scotland patents. To induce persons
of opulence to seek the new honours, the Commis-
sioners were empowered to fill up the dates of patents
at their discretion, so that those unwilling to occupy
a lower place on the roll might be reckoned among
the first creations. This expedient probably did not
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 113
answer, for a royal letter, dated 17th October,
authorised the Privy Council to institute ^' a voluntary
contribution'' for transplanting to the colony mem-
bers of the Highland clans. That letter is in these'
terms:
" (Charles E.)
"Eight, *&c. Whereas our trustie and weelbeloved Sir
William Alexander, our Secretarie, hathe agreet with some of
the heads of the Cheef Clannes of the Highlands of that our
Kingdome, and with some other persones, for transporting them-
selues and thare followers, to setle themselues into New Scot-
land, as we doe very much approve of that course for advancing
the said plantatione, and for debordening that our Kingdome of
that race of people, which in former times hade bred soe many
troubles ther : soe since that purpose may very much import the
pubUck good and quiet thareof. Wee ar most willing that you
assist the same, by all fair and laufull wayis : and becaus, as we
are informed, divers are willing to contribute for thare dispatche
by thare means, We require you to tak the best and most faire
counsel heirin, that possiblie you can, that a voluntarie Con-
tributione may be made for that purpose, in such maner as you
shall think most fitt, and that you substitute any persones whom
you shall think expedient for the managing and collectione
thareof. — Giuen at Hamptoune Court, the 17 of October 1629 "
(Eeg. of Letters).
No general contribution was sought for, while
Captain Kertch reported from Port Royal, that with-
out immediate supplies the existence of the colony
was endangered. On the 17th November the king,
through the instrumentality of his Principal Secre-
tary for Scotland, urged "contractors for baronets"
to proceed with their work diligently, '' so that the
next supplie" for New Scotland "may go out in
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114 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
time." A royal letter concluded with the following
promise :
'' And for your better encouragement and more speedie repay-
ment, whersoever any persone of qualitie fitt for the dignitie of
Barronet hath any particulare favor to crave of ws, wee will
and allow you, according to the severaJl charge that any of yow
hath from ws, to require them first to accept of the said dignitie,
according to the conditiones formerlie condiscendit vpon, with
others which shall mak ws the more willing to gratifie them,
ffor wee desire much to have that work brought to perfections**
On the same day that " contractors for baronets **
received the preceding missive, the Scottish Privy
Council were addressed in the following despatch :
"(Charles R)
" Whareas vpon good consideration, and for the better advance-
ment of the plantatione of New Scotland, which may much
import the good of our service, and the honor and benefitt of
that our ancient kingdome, oure Boyall Father did intend, and
we since have erected the order and titill of Baronet in our
said ancient Kingdome, which wee have since established and
conferred the same vpon divers gentlemen of good qualitie ; and
seeing our trustie and weil-beloued Counsellor Sir Williame
Alexander, Knight, our principall Secretaxie of that our ancient
kingdome of Scotland, and our Leivetennant of New Scotland,
whoe these many yeirs byegone has been at greats charges for
the discoverie thareof, hath now in end setled a Colonic thare,
whare his sone, Sir Williame, is now resident, and wee being
most w illing to afford all possible means of encouragement that
convenientlie wee can to the Barronettis of that our ancient
kingdome, for the furtherance of soe good a wark, and to the
effect they may be honored, and have place in all respectes
according to their patents from ws. We have been pleased to
authorise and allow, as be theis presents for ws and our suc-
cessors we authorise and allow the said Leivetennant and Baron-
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 116
ettis, and everie one of them, and thare heires male, to weare
and carry about their neckis, in all time coming, ane orange
tauney silk ribbane, whairon shall hing pendant in a scutchion
argent a saltoire azeur, thairon ane inscutcheune of the armes of
Scotland, with ane imperiall cronne above the scutchone, and
incircled with this motto — fax mentis honestae gloria : which
cognoissance oure said present Leivetennant shall deliver now
to them from ws ; that they may be the better knowen and dis-
tinguished from other persones : And that none pretend ignorance
of the respect due vnto them, Oure pleasure therefore is, that
by oppen proclamatione at the markett crosse of Edinburgh, and
all other head borrows of our Kingdome, and such other places
as you shall think necessarie, you cans intimat our Royall pleasor
and intentione herin to all our subjectis. And if any persone,
out of neglect or contempt, shall presume to tak place or pre-
cedence of the said barronettis, thare wifes or childring, which
is due vnto them by their Patents, or to weare thare cognois-
sance, wee will that vpon notice thareof given to you, you can
cans punish such offendars, by prisoning and fyning of them, as
you shall think fitting, that others may be terrified from attempt-
ing the like : And We ordaine that from tyme to tyme, as occa-
sione of granting and renewing thair Patents or thair heirs
succeiding to the said dignitie, shall offer, That, the same poware
to theme to carie the said ribbane and cognoissance, shalbe
therein particularKe granted and inserted : And Wee likewayis
ordaine these presents to be insert and registrat in the Books of
our Counsell and Exchecq'; and that you cans to remain ad
futwram rei memoriam; and that all parties having entres may
have authentick copies and extractes thareof: And for your soe
doing, These oure lettres shalbe vnto you, and everie one of you
from tyme to tyme, your sufficient warrant & discharge in that
behalf. — Given at our Court of Whythall, the sevinteinthe of
November 1629.
'' To our Eight Trustie, &c., the Viscount of Duppleine, our
Chanceilor of Scotland, the Earle of Monteith, the Presi-
dent, and to the remanent Earles, Lords, and otheris of
our Privie Counsell of our said Kingdome."
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116 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
These were days of gewgaws. But the privilege of
wearing an orange ribbon failed to attract those who
were otherwise indifferent to the new honours. In
a letter to the Privy Council, dated 26th November,
the king intimated that he would advance to higher
honours those who accepted present favours. The
same missive contained a clause specially addressed
to those who held heritable oflSces, warning them
that only by aiding Sir William Alexander's colonial
enterprise would they acquire a claim to have their
privileges upheld or .recognised. Two weeks later,
Mr David Fullerton, Receiver of Crown Rents, was
commanded to pay Sir William Alexander the bal-
ance of £6000 due him by the Exchequer (Register
of Letters). There was no response.
On the 23d April 1629, a treaty of peace was con-
cluded between France and England, in which it was
provided that while prizes taken during the war should
remain vrtth the captors, whatever was seized on either
side for two months after the signing of the peace,
should be restored. Proceeding on these articles.
Captain Daniel of Dieppe claimed for the Company
of New France the country at Cape Breton, and
on the 10th September dispossessed the settlers under
Lord Ochiltree. Some of these were permitted to
return to Britain, but Lord Ochiltree and seventeen
others were detained in France. After being sub-
jected to much harsh treatment. Lord Ochiltree was
released on the interference of Sir Thomas Edwards,
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 117
the English ambassador (Colonial Papers, pp. 104-
106). Liberated about the end of January 1629-30,
he laid the following statement before the English
Grovemment :
" The King of France, by his commissione, doeth assure to
himself all that part of America w^ lyth, eleuatione from the
fortie to the sixty degree, whereby he doeth incluid the River
of Canada, all Acady, w^*^ incluids all New Ingland and New
Scotland, theas lying in lenthe by the sea coeist some six him-
drithe myllis.
*' By this he assumis to himself the sole priuiledge and bene-
fitt of fisching, at this tyme the cheef commerce of France,
whereby in a few yeeris he wilbe able to nourrish ane seminary
and nursery of saillers and seamen above ony king in the world.
And in this land he hathe bothe the commerce as also the occa-
sioun and means of building, or causing boold, what schips he
pleasis, and al thayr fumitur, and the brauest harborys in the
world, so that he may frame his schips of what burding he
pleases. He intends, as Captain Danyell hes publickly confessit
and professed, the supplantatioune of theas Colonyes of the
Inglis in New Ingland, and the making pryss of all the Inglish
schipps going thither : and to this efFectt he goeth in ane schipp
of the King of Frances this zeir, accompanied with two other
smaller schipps, and two hundrethe men in euery of them.
" That the Kyng of Britane hath as guid right to theas lands
as to England, I hoop the estate of England knowes it ; and I
know it can be instructed : and I know it is better then Ingland
and Scotland, bothe in respect of the climat, the goodnes of y*
soylls, and riche contrie ; iff it were peopled, w** is easy to the
King of Great Britane to doe, hauing alreddy in theas parts
aboue seuen thousand of his Ma*^** subjects.
" Captain Danyell is the whole projector of this to the State of
France : he is to secoimd the Jesuits in this cours, he the agent
& they the plotters: he is to part from Deep betwix an the
tuenty of February with theas his thrie schipps. If he resaue
nocht interruptioime in his courss this zeir^ it will be with moir
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118 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
difficulty and damage both heirafter; for he hathe professed,
w«^ shalbe verified befor Captan Feuer and the Lo. Ocheltrie,
that the King of France did mynd nothing by the peace with
Ingland, bot to endur for two zeiris till he secured America^ and
peceably possessed himself therein."
Lord Ochiltree reckoned his losses at £20,000 ; he
obtained no compensation, but, on the 24th of April
1639, was created a Baronet of New Scotland (Register
of Letters, etc., p. 54).
When Sir William Alexander the yoimger arrived
at Port Royal in the summer of 1629, he found that
thirty of the Scottish colonists had perished from
exposure. The prospects of the colony were other-
wise satisfactory. The native Indians, entering into
an alliance with the governor, selected Sagamore
Segipt, one of their number, to proceed to England,
to crave protection against the French. In December
1629, a royal letter was directed to Sir James Bagg,
Governor of Plymouth, to conduct to court " one of
the commanders of Canada, attended by some others
of that countrie " (Royal Letters, etc., p. 52). Saga-
more Segipt's appearance in London is, by the Rev.
Joseph Mead, thus described in a letter, dated Christ
College, 12th February 1630 :
" There came last week to London the king, queen, and young
prince of New Scotland, which is the west part of that tract
which was in the patent which Sir Ferdinando Gorges had for
New England, but he consented that Sir William Alexander, a
Scot, should have a patent thereof from King James, anno 1621,
but to be governed by the laws, and depend upon the king of
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 119
England. This king comes to be of our king's religion, and to
submit his kingdom to him, and to become his homage for the
same, that he may be protected against the French of Canada.
Those savages arrived at Plymouth, were a while entertained at
my Lord Poidet*s in Somersetshire, much mstde of, especially my
lady of the savage queen. She came with her to the coach,
when they were to come to London, put a chain about her neck,
with a diamond valued by some at near £20. The savages took
all in good part, but for thanks or acknowledgment made no
sign or expression at all" (Birch's Court and Times of Charles L
Lond. 1849, vol ii, p. 60).
In the autumn of 1629, Claude de la Tour, the
former Governor of Port Royal under the French,
visited England. Introduced at court, he married,
as his second wife, one of the queen's maids of
honour. On the 30th November he received a
patent as a baronet of New Scotland; and on the
payment of a sum of money,* obtained from Sir
William Alexander a grant of territory, extending
from the sea inland thirty or forty miles, and
reaching from the site of the present Yarmouth
north-easterly to Lunenburgh, comprising the present
counties of Shelbume and Queen's, and half the
county of Lunenburgh (Slafter's Sir William Alex-
ander). In accepting these lands. Sir Claude boimd
himself to become a good and faithful subject of the
British sovereign. With two ships of war, he sailed
for New Scotland in May 1630, and landed at Cape
• Sir John Scot of Scotstarvet alleges that " Sir William Alexander got a great
snm of money from the King of France to quit his interest in Nova Scotia. " The
report may hkye arisen from his receiving a boon from Claude de la Tour (Scot's
Staggering State. £din. 1872).
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120 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Sable. To his son, Charles de Sainct Estienne, who
commanded the French garrison at Cape Sable, he
bore a patent of baronetcy, with a commission
authorising his continuance in office, on his sub-
mitting to British rule. Indignant at an offer which
implied treachery to his own government, Sainct
Estienne rejected the proposal, and offered to defend
the fort with his life. Returning to his ship. Sir
Claude again affectionately entreated his son to
surrender himself. Meeting a second refusal. Sir
Claude landed his men. For two days he attacked
the fort vigorously, but was compelled to return to
his ship. Throwing himself on the clemency of his
son, he and his wife received permission to reside in
the neighbourhood, but were prohibited from enter-
ing the fort (Haliburton's Nova Scotia, voL i, p. 45).
Inspired by Cardinal de Richelieu, the government
of France resolved not to abandon La Cadie to the
Scottish settlers. Accordingly Monsieur de Chas-
teauneuf, the French ambassador, claimed, on the
articles of April, an immediate surrender of the pro-
vince of New Scotland. To the English government
he, on the 1st February 1629-30, presented the fol-
lowing note :
"The Ambassador of France prays his Majesty of Great
Britain that he may please to ordain and consent to what has
been promised and granted by the Articles of the 23d April
last, to Captain Querch (Kirk) and Sir William Alexander,
and certain others, his subjects, who are resident, or shall here-
after reside, in New France; that they withdraw themselves
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 121
therefrom, and restore into the hands of those whom it may
please the King his Master to send out, and who shall be bearers
of his commission, all places and spots which they have occupied
and inhabited since the last troubles, and, in particular, the
fortress and . settlement of Quebec, Coast of Cape Breton, and
Port Eoyal, taken and occupied ; to wit, the Fortress of Quebec
by Captain Querch, and the Coasts of Cape Breton and Port
Eoyal by Sir William Alexanders, the Scots noblemen, since the
23d April last. And that they restore them in the same condi-
tion as they found them, without dismantling the fortifications,
or destroying the foundations of the houses ; or carrying off any
arms, munitions, merchandise, or chattels therefrom from such
as were there at the time of the capture ; and that they shall be
bound to restore them, and make restitution of all the furs which
they may have taken away since ; together with the pinnace,
commanded by the captain from Caen, which was conveyed to
England ; as also the ship named the Mary of St Jean de Luz.
of seventy tons burthen, which was captured by the said Sir
William Alexander, with whalebone from Cape Breton, and
part of the crew brought here [by] Captain Pomerey."
Finding the king unwilling to prolong the rupture
with his brother-in-law, the French monarch, Sir
William Alexander sought to maintain his privileges
by a different method. The following letter, from
the Earl of Nithsdale to his agent, Mr Bcott in Hol-
bom, would indicate that, on Sir William's behalf, an
attempt was made to induce the French ambassador
to forego his claims :
" From my Chalmer in King's Stretft,
''the 19 of March 1630.
" [Wor]thie Freind, — I must agene emestlie desyir you will
[be s]peik the Ambassador, as I tould you, and deall with [him],
that as he haith shonne him selfe a wyse man .... hertile,
that he wald behaue him selfe soe as he [mey] mack a fair
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122 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
retreit ; seeing I assure yow thar [is] nothing moir desyired wpon
his part; whom the Ambassador seams to mistrust without
caus ; and [let] him consider what should be thoght of him if
anie [ru]b should be procured be his cariage in that friendship
between our maisters, soe much wished for be all that love
thame. For the mater of Canada he will get contentment for
that which [is] in the pouer of the Counsell of England; and for
Sir William Alexander's part, I know thar is means eused be
the man he fears, that the King mey giue satisfaction leyk-
weyis; and I hope itt sail prevailL Lett him, as I spoke,
behave him selfe kyndlie to the man I taulld, for I assure you
he is mistene. I persave thar is ryche gifts prepared for him,
both from the King and Quein, at his perting, which I sail
desyer may be to his honir, which I question nothing if he be
nocht the hinder him selfe. So, this expecting yow will not faill,
I rest, your freind to serve yow. NrrmsDAiLL."
(Fraser*s Book of Carlaverock, vol ii., p. 119).
Notwithstanding the prospect of ''rich gifts,"
]yionsieur de Chasteauneuf held firmly to his pur-
pose. On the subject of his note. Secretary Viscount
Dorchester thus communicated with Sir Isaac Wake,
the English ambassador at Paris, in a despatch of the
15th April :
" In only one point Monsieur de Chasteauneuf seemed to goe
away Dl satisfyed, that he could not obtayne a direct promise
from his Maj^ for y* restoring of Port Eoyall, joyning to Canada,
where some Scottishmen are planted, vnder the title of Nova
Scotia. This Plantation wa3 authorized by King James of
happy memorie. . . . True it is, it was not begun till to-
wards the end of y* war with France, when some of his Maty*
subjects of that Kingdome went to Port Eoyall, and there seated
themselves in a place where no French did inhabite, Mons' de
Chasteauneuf pretending (rather out of his oune discourse, as
wee here conceive, then by commission) that all should be quitt
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 123
in state as it was before the warre, and by consequence those
men withdrawne, hath pressed his Majesty earnestly for that
purpose ; and His Majesty, without refusing or granting, hath
taken time to aduise of it, letting him know thus much, that
unles he found reason as well before, as since the warre, to have
that place free for his subjects* plantation, he would recall them ;
but in case he shall find the Plantation free for them in time of
peace, the French will have no cause to pretend possession
thereof, in regard of the warre, meanwhile Kebec (which is a
strong fortified place in the Eiver of Canada, which the English
tooke), his Majesty is content should be restored, because the
French were removed out of it by a strong hand ; and what-
soever was taken from them in that Fort shall be restored like-
wise, whereby may appear the reality of His Majesty's proceed-
ings; and thus I advertise your IP for your information, not
that it should be needfull for you to treate or n^otiate in it,
but to y® end, that if it should be spoken of vpon Mon" de Chas-
teauneuf retume, you should not be ignorant how the businesse
passed" (Colonial Papers, p. 113).
Notwithstanding the treaty of April, subsequent
proceedings serve to show that the Government of
Charles I. did not contemplate that the French
should obtain possession of Port Royal. In a royal
letter dated 13th May 1630, the king thanked Sir
William Alexander the younger for his "carefiill
and provident proceeding for planting of a colonie at
Port RoyaU," and desired him to continue as he had
begun, that the work might be brought to perfection ;
he further charged him to appoint a deputy during
his absence (Reg. of Letters). On the 3d July the
governor was further informed of the king's desire to
maintain the patents, while, in reference to French
claims, information was sought as to how far the
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124 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
settlers were desirous of retaining connection with
the mother country. Of the same date the king
informed the Convention of the Scottish Estates,
that Sir William Alexander was appointed a royal
commissioner, to consult with them on public affairs.
For the entertainment of the commissioner, on his
arrival in Scotland, the Earl Marischal was, by royal
warrant dated Whitehall, 1st July 1630, commanded
'' to kill a brace of fat buckis."
It was needful first to satisfy the baronets of New
Scotland that their titles were secure. For this pur-
pose the commissioner requested the Convention to
ratify their patents. This being done, he proceeded,
on behalf of the baronets, to urge the importance of
maintaining the settlement. At his recommendation
the Convention agreed to petition the Crown to re-
tain the colony (Acta Pari. Scot., vol. v., pp. 208,
223, 224). Their petition was accompanied by the
following narrative, prepared by the commissioner :
" Immediately about the time that Columbus discouered the
Isle of Cuba, Sebtistian Chabot, set out from England by
Henrie the Seventh, did first discouer the continent of America,
beginning at Newfoundland, and thereafter going to the Gulph
of Canada, and from thence haviog seen Cape Bretton, all along
the coast to Florida: By which discouery his Mat*« hath the
title to Virginia, New England, and New Scotland, as being
then first discouered by Chabot, at the charge of the King of
England.
" The French after this, neglecting the knowledge they had
thereafter by Jaques Cartier, of the Eiver of Canada as a cold
dimat, or, as it may bee, in regard it was challenged as first
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 125
discovered by the English, hauing a great desire to possesse
themselves in some part of America, they planted first a Colony
under the charge of Mons' Villegagnon in Brasill, and another
vnder the charge of Mons' Landofiiere in Florida, from both of
which they were expelled by the Spaniards.
" Then giving ouer all hope of attempting anything that was
belonging to the Spaniards, and pressing by aH meanes to haue
some interest in America, notwithstanding that the English
(though they were not able to possesse the whole at first) had
possessed themselves of that Continent, discouered by them, by
a Colonic in the South part thereof, now called Virginia, and by
another in the north part thereof, now called New England and
New Scotland, planted by Justice Popham. The French, in
the time of Henry the Fourth, under the charge of Mons' Pou-
trincourt, hauing scene all the coasts of New England and New
Scotland, to both which parts they did then beginne to claim
right ; They seated themselves in Port Eoyall, out of which, as
soon as it was made known to the English, they were displanted
by Sir Samuel Ajgall, as hauing wrongfully intruded themselves
within those bounds that did belong to this Crowne, both by
discouery and possession.
" The remainder of this French Collony, not hauing occasion
to be transported to France, stayed in the contrie. Yet they
were neglected by the State not owning them any more, and
hardly supplied in that which was necessary for them, by volon-
tary aduenturers, who came to. trade, in hope of their comodi-
ties, in exchange of what they bought : And during the time of
King James there was no complaynt made vpon S Samuel Ar-
gall for hauing displanted them, and they were now lately glad
to demand that protection fix)m his Mat*®, which was not afforded
them firam any other. Whereby it may euidentlye appear that his
Mat*~ title was thought good ; otherwise it is likeUe the French
King, if any wrong had been done vnto him, would haue sought
to haue the same repaired, either by treatie or otherwisa But
without making either any priuat complaynt, or yet doing any
Publick Act against the same. They went next and seated
themselves vpon the North side of the Biver of Canada at
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126 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Kibeck, a place whereunto the English, by a preceding title,
might likewise have claimed right : But small notice was taken
thereof, till, during the time of the late Warre, a Commission
was given by his Ma*** to remove them from thence, which was
accordingly performed ; the place being taken a little after the
peace was concluded, which, at that time, had not come to the
taker's knowledge; and a Colonic of Scottish was planted at
Port Koyall, which had never beene repossessed nor claimed by
the French, since they were first removed from the same.
" This businesse of Port Royall cannot be made lyable to the
Articles of the Peace, seeing there was no act of hostilitie
comitted therebye; a Collony onely beeing planted vpon his
Mat*** owne groimd, according to a Patent granted by his Mat***
late deare father and Mat***, selfe, hauing as good a right thereto
as to any part of that Continent : and both the patent and the
possession taken thereupon was in the time of his Mat*** late
deare Father, as is set down at length in the Voyages written
by Purchas. But neither by that possession, nor be the subse-
quent plantatioun, hath anything been taken from the French,
whereof they had any right at all, or yet any possession for the
time ; and what might haue beene done, either before the warre
or since the warre, without a breach of peace, cannot justly bee
compkined vpon for beeing done at that time.
" After that the Scottish Colonic was planted at Port Royall,
they, and the French who dwelled there, hauing met with the
Commanders of the Natives, called by them Sagamoes, did make
choice of one of the Cheefe of them, called Sagamo Segipt, to
come, in name of the rest, to his Mat** for acknowledging of his
title, and to become his Mat*** subjects, craning only to be pro-
tected by his Mat** against their enemies : which demand of his
was accepted by his Mat**, who did promise to protect them, as
he reported to the rest at his retume.
** Mons' La Tour, who was cheif command' of the few French
then in that Countrie, beeing neglected (as is sayd) by his own
Countriemen, and finding his Mat*^ title not so much as ques-
tioned, after their beeing expelled fix)m Port Royall, and the
coming in of the Scottish necessary for his security, did, along
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 127
with the same Sagamo, oflFring and demanding the like, in the
name of the French who line there : so that his Mat" hath a
good right to New Scotland, by discouery, by possession of his
Mat** subjects, by removing of the French, who had seated
themselves at Port Eoyall, and by Mons' La Tour, Command'
of them there, his turning Tenant, & by the volontarie hauing
tenents of the rest to his Mat*®, and that no obstacle might re-
maine, the very sauages, by their Commissioner, willingly ofiring
their obedience vnto his Mat** ; so that his Mat*® now is bound
in honour to maintaine them, both in regard of his subjects that
haue planted there vpon his warrant, and of the promises that
he made to the Commissioner of the Natives that came to him
from them, as he promised to the Commissioner of the Natiues ;
And as all the subjects of his Mat*«» ancient Kingdome of Scot-
land did humbly entreat at their last Conuention, as may appeare
by a letter to his Ma*^* from his Counsel to that effect " (Colonial
Papers, p. 119).
When the Scottish Privy Council met to sanction
the transmission of the documents, the commissioner
announced that, on the 4th September, the king had
elevated him to the state and dignity of Viscount of
Stirling and Lord Alexander of Tullibody. Then
followed an intimation that his Majesty had consti-
tuted him Master of Requests for Scotland, with a
salary from the Exchequer of £200 sterling. The
council received the warrant, but gave no sanction
that it should pass the seals. On the 16th December
his Majesty informed them that he had '' filled up the
grant with his own hand," and commanded that it
should be "expede the seal," and that the salary
should be duly paid (Reg. of Letters).
During his Scottish visit. Lord Stirling sold, for
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128 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
£12,000 Scots, the lands and port of Largs, to Sir
Thomas Boyd of Bonshaw, John Boill of KUbum,
John Brisbane of Bishoptown, and Robert Boyd of
Tourgill, and others (Reg. of Deeds, vol xlvi.).
The Scottish colonists at Port Royal, under the
command of Sir William Alexander the younger,
built a fort on the west side of the haven (Granville),
nearly opposite to Goat Island, the remains of which
are still visible. There they were joined by Sir Claude
de la Tour, who retained his allegiance to the British
Crown (HaUburton's Nova Scotia, vol i, p. 45).
Leaving Sir George Home in charge of Port Royal,
Sir William Alexander the younger in the autumn
of 1630 returned to Britain. On the 26th February
1630-1, he, along with Captain Kertch and others,
described as " adventurers in the company of Canada,"
presented a memorial to the English Admiralty, pray-
ing that the masters of '' The Whale," and other ships
of the port of London, might be restrained from pro-
ceeding to Canadian ports. By the advice of Lord
Dorchester the prayer was granted (Reg. of Letters).
On the 19th April a royal warrant wa5 issued to
Lord Ochiltree, Sir Peirce Corsbie, and Sir Archibald
Acheson, Baronets, and Sir Walter Crosbie, Knight,
empowering them to plant a colony '' nearer unto the
River of Canada " (Reg. of Letters). On the 29th
April the Scottish Privy Council were assured by
royal letter that the plantation of New Scotland was
still an object of solicitude, and they were invited to
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 129
nominate members of their body to assist in the
enterprise. On the 5th May followed another missive,
intimating that the king was prepared to grant
baronetcies to those aiding the new colony, commis-
sioners being specially appointed to receive from
Lord Stirling resignations of land in New Scotland,
and to grant infeftment in the same (Reg. of Letters).
Within two months Port Royal was finally ceded to
the French.
I
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CHAPTER V.
MEMOIR OP SIR WILLIAM ALEXANDER, VISCOUNT STIRLING
— ^FROM THE ABANDONBiENT OF PORT ROYAL TO THE
COINING OF THE COPPER MONEY.
On the 10th July 1631, Lord Stu-ling was charged
to abandon Port Royal in the following missive :
" (Charles E.)
^^ Right, &c. Wheras ther is a finall agreement made be-
twixt ws and our good brother, the French king, and that,
amongst other particulariteis for perfecting heirof, we have con-
descended that Port Royall shalbe putt in the estate it was
befor the begianing of the late wane, that no pairtie may haue
any advantage ther dureing the continuance of the same, &
without derogation to any preceiding right or title be vertew of
any thing done, other then, or to be done, by the doeing of that
which we command at this tyme : It is our will and pleasur,
and we command yow heirby, that, with all possible diligence,
yow give ordour to Sir George Home, Elnycht, or any vther
haveing charge from yow ther, to demolisch the Fort which was
builded by your Sone ther, and to remove all the people, goods,
ordinance, munition, cattel, and vther things belonging vnto that
Colonic, leaveing the boundis altogidder waist and unpeopled as
it was at the tyme when your said Sone landed first to plant
ther, by vertew of our Conunission, and this yow faill not to doe,
as yow wilbe answerable vnto ws.
"Greenwich, 10 July 1631."
A vacillating policy supervened. On the 12th July,
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OP STIRLING. 131
two days after Lord Stirling had been charged to
remove his colony from Port Royal, and to destroy
the fort, the Scottish Privy Council were assured
by the king that he was resolved to maintain the
colony. The royal letter to the Council proceeds
thus :
" (Charles E.)
** Right trustie and right weil-belovit Cousine & Counsellour, &c.
Seeing we have sene by a letter fixnn yow the Ordour of Barronets,
erected by our late deare Father fmd ws for furtherlDg the
plantation of New Scotkuid, was approved by the whole Estats
of our Kingdome at the last Convention ; And that we vnderstand
both by ther reports that came fix)m thence, and by the sensible
consideration & notice taken therof by our nyghbour cun-
treyis, how well that work is begun, Our right trustie and weil-
belovit Counsellour, Sir William Alexander, our Leivtennent
ther, haueing folly performed what was expected from him, for
the benefite which was intendit for him by these Barronets, being
very desyreous that he should not suffer therin, bot that both he
& others may be encouraged to prosecute the good beginning
that is made, as we hartelie thank all such as hathe contribute
ther ayde by contracting with him for advanceing of the saide
work alreadie : Our pleasur is, that yow seriouslie consider,
either amongst yow all, or by a Committie of such as ar best
affectionafc towards that work, how it may be best brought to
perfection ; for we ar so fiu* (whatever controversie be about it)
from qujrting our title to New Scotland & Canada, that we wilbe
verie carefull to manteane all our good subjects who doe plant
ihemselffis there, and lett none of the Barronets any way be
prejudged in the honour & privileges conteynit in ther Patents,
by punisching all that dare to presume to wrong them therin,
that others may be encouraged to tak the lyk course, as the more
acceptable vnto ws, and the nearer to a title of Nobilitie, wher-
vnto that of Barronet is the next degrie; and if the said
Sir WiQiami aa our livetennent of New Scotland, shall convene
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132 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
the Barronets to consult togidder concerneing the Plantation, we
herby authorise him, and will yow to authorise him as far as is
requisit for that eflfect, willing that Proclamatioun be made of
what we have signifeid, or of what yow s h all determine for
furthering that work, wherof we i:ecommend the care to yow, as
a matter importing speciaUie our honor and the good of that our
Ancient Kingdome. — ^From our Mannour at Greenwiche, the
twelfedayof Julij 1631."
As commanded by his Majesty, the Privy Council
issued a proclamation assuring his Majesty's loyal
subjects, more especially the baronets, that '' so farre
from quitting his title to New Scotland and Canada,"
his Majesty "will be verie carefull to maintean all
his good subjects who doe plant thameselfis there."
This proclamation was issued from Holyroodhouse
on the 28th July, and on the same day two other
manifestoes on the same subject were despatched
from the palace of Greenwich. The first, a Latin
document, entitled '' Pro Eege Gallorum," is of the
following purport :
" Charles, by the grace of God, King of Great Britain, France,
and Ireland, and Defender of the Faith, &c., to all whom these
presents may concern, greeting. Since we have judged it good
and right and just, that now at length peace and amity being
recently concluded between us and the most Christian King, our
very dear brother, should resume their former influence and
sway; and so that all controversies and diflSculties which
hitherto, from time to time, have divided our kingdoms and
subjects, being now made up and concluded, should, by a mutual
reconciliation, be abolished and put wholly aside by both parties.
To which end, we, among other conditions offered on our part,
do agree to make evacuation of the fortalice or castle and settle-
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 133
ment of the Royal Port, commonly known as Port Royal, in
New Scotland, which, during the height of the late war, by
virtue of a wjorant or commission under the seal of the T^ing of
Scotland, had been captured and occupied as a place already
abandoned; and that, moreover, without any prejudice to the
right or title of us, or our subjects, in time to come, We, offer-
ing the guarantee of our royal word and promise in this matter
against reasons or objections to be brought forward or urged
against it whatever, by these presents do declare, and on the
faith of our royal word, promise that we will undertake, cause,
and effect, that, by our subjects dwelling in the said fortalice or
castle and settlement of the Royal Haven, commonly called Port
Royal, whether they reside or dwell there as soldiers of the
garrison or colonists or inhabitants, the said fortalice or castle
and settlement of Port Royal shall be forthwith abandoned and
relinquished, and also all their weapons, machines, provisions,
cattle, goods, and chattels therefrom transported, inmiediately
and as soon as letters declaring this our wiU and decree shall be
shown and read unto them by deputies or commissioners, who
shall bring the same from the most Christian King our brother ;
opportunity being given of sending thither and returning thence :
In witness whereof we will to sign and confirm these our letters
by our own hand, and the Great Seal of our Kingdom of Scot-
land. — Given from our Palace of Greenwich, the 28 day of the
month of July, A.D. 1631, and of our reign the seventh" (Reg. of
Letters).
The second document in connection with New
Scotland affairs^ issued from Greenwich on the 28th
July, was addressed to the Scottish Privy Council.
The Council was informed that the Earl of Hadding-
ton and twelve others were appointed commissioners,
" for the better furtherance and advancement of the
plantation of New Scotland" (Reg. of Letters).
Negotiations continued till, by the treaty of St Ger-
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134 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
main-en-laye, subscribed on the 29th March 1632,
the entire territory of New Scotland was formally
ceded to the French. The third article of the treaty
proceeded thus :
" On the part of his Majesty the King of Great Britain, the
said Lord Ambassador, in virtue of the power he has, which will
be inserted at the end of these presents, has promised, and pro-
mises, for and in the name of his said Majesty, to give up and
restore all the places occupied in New France, Acadia, and
Canada by subjects of his Majesty the King of Great Britain j
and to cause a31 such to withdraw from the said places. And to
this end, the said Lord Ambassador wiU deliver, after the con-
firmation and signature of these presents, to the Commissioners
of the most Christian King, in due form, the power which he
holds from his Majesty the King of Great Britain, for the restor-
ation of the said places, together with the commands of his
said Majesty to all who hold command in Port Eoyal, Fort
Quebec, and Cape Breton; that the settlements and forts afore-
said be surrendered and restored unto the hands of such as it
shall please his most Christian Majesty to order," etc.
In consideration of his further loss by the surrender
of the colony. Lord Stu^ling had his grant of £6000
increased to £10,000, a royal warrant for payment of
the larger sum being directed to the Exchequer.
That warrant was accompanied by the following
royal letter, directed to the Privy Council :
"(Chaeles R)
" Eight, etc. Wheras we send heirwith inclosed vnto yow a
Signature of Ten Thowsand Pund sterling in favours of our right,
&c., the Lord Viscoimt of Stirling, to be past and exped by yow
vnder our great Seall ; least any mistaking should ensue ther
vpon, we have thought it good to declare vnto yow, that (as it
may appear by itselflF) it is nowayes for quyting the tide, ryght,
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OP STIRLING. 135
or possession of New Scotland, or of any part therof, hot onlie
for the satisfaction of the losses that the said Viscount hath by
giveing ordour for removeing of his Colony at our express com-
mand for performeing of ane Article of the Treatie betwixt the
French and ws, and We are so far from abandoneing of that
business as We doe heirbye reqyre yow and everie one of yow
to aflfoord your best help and encouragement for furthering of
the same, cheiflie in perswading such to be Baronets as are in
qualitie fitt for that dignitie, and come befor yow to seek for
favour from ws : but remitting the maner to your own judgment,
and expecting your best endeavours herein : willing thir presents
to be insert in your books of Excheker, and ane Act made ther-
▼pon. We bid, &c.
« Whythall, 19 Fiipi 1632."
Though the colony of New Scotland had been
wholly surrendered, and a sum awarded to the ex
lieutenant as compensation. King Charles persisted in
assuring his Scottish subjects that the colony would
he maintained. In the following letter to the Privy
Council, dated 14th June 1632, he makes this as-
surance in verba principis :
" (Charles E.)
''Trustie, &c Wheras vpon the late Treatie betwixt ws and
the French Bling, we wer pleased to condescend, that the Colonie
which was latelie planted at Port EoyaU, in New Scotland,
should be for the present removed &om thence ; and have ac-
cordinglie gevin ordour to our right, &c., the Viscount of Stir-
ling, our principall Secretarie for Scotland, altho*, by all our
fieyeraU ordours and directions concemeing that busines, we
have ever expressed that we have no intention to quyt our
right title to anie of these boundis ; yet, in regard our meaneing
perchance will .not be sufficientlie vnderstude by these our love-
ing subjects, who heirefter shall intend the advancement of that
work ; flfor ther further satisfaction heiiin, we doe heirby reijuyr
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136 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
yow to draw vp a sufiScient warrant for our hand to pas vnder
our great Seall, to our said Eight, &c., the Viscount of Stirling
to goe on in the said work whensoever he shall think fitting,
wherby, for the encouragement of such as shall interest them-
selfl&s with him in it, he may have full assurance from ws, in verbo
principis, that as we have never meaned to relinquish our title
to any part of these cuntreyis which he hath by patents from
ws, so we shall ever heirefter be readie, by our gracious favour,
to protect him, and all such as have or shall heirefter at aney
tyme concurre with him, for the advancement of the plantatiouns
in these boundis foirsaidis ; And if at aney tyme heirefter, by
ordour from ws, they shalbe forced to remove from the saidis
boundis, or aney part therof wher they shall happin to be
planted, we shall fully satisfie them for all loss they shall sus-
teane by aney such act or ordour from ws. And for your soe
doeing, &c.
" Greenwich, 14 Junij 1632."
On the 16th June, Sir William Alexander sub-
mitted to the king the following note :
"A Minute of some points considerdble for his Majesties seamce in
regard of the French their possessing of New Scotland at this
time,
" The possessing of it by the French immediatelie vpon the
late Treatie, though it bee not warranted by the Treatie, if some
speidie acte do not disproue it, will be held to be authorised by
it.
" The French pretend title to Virginia & New England, as
may appeare by their patent graunted to the Canada Companie
of all Nona Francia from Florida to the North Pole, To be found
in Mercure Frangoise, anno 1627, which tytle may hereafter
proue dangerous for his Ma"** subjects in these pairts, if the
French become stronge in New Scotland.
"It is evident that the French haue a designe more than
ordinarie herein, for besides their plantacion in Canada, for the
which there is a reason apparent in the benefite of trade, they
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 137
haue tlds yeare sent 300 men to New Scotland, where no present
benefite can possiblie redound to them in proportioun to the
charge they are at, and are the next yeare, as I am crediblie in-
formed, to sett out ten shippes with planters, those that are
interested in it haueing bound themselues to a yearlie supplie
of a great nomber of planters, which is a certane proofe of some
end greater then aney persons expectation of proflFeit can en-
courage them into.
*' This their future expectation, in my judgement, most con-
sist in the use of wood, for building of shippes, and for haueing
all materials requisite for shipping, such as pitch, tarr, and roset,
which are there in abundance ; yron oare hath been lykeways
formerlie discouered by the French themselues.
" The building of shippes there, and the imployment of them
in fishing, which aboundes vpon that coast, especiallie Salt, being
to be made by the Sunne as in France, lykelie to tend infinitelie
to the iner case of shipping and of mariners, which apparentlie
is the designe of the French : besides, that if the French doe
once in a public and generall way enter to fish on that coast, it
cannot but vndo the English trade, that is, by fisheinge, since
the French haue Salt at an easier rate than the English, but
more if they make salt in the countrie, which I am confident
they may doe.
" If his Ma*** shalbe pleased to appoint some whom he shall
thinke fitt for considering these things, and the like that may be
proponed, there may perchance some thing be found expedient
to be done either now or hereafter tending to the advancement
of his Ma**** service in these pairts abroad.
" These are only in aU humble duty, without any privat end,
to expresse what in the small experience I haue particularlie
had herein, I can conceaue may conceme the publick good"
(Colonial Papers, p. 152).
Vacillation continued. On the 12th July, a royal
warrant was addressed to Sir William Alexander,
Robert Charlton, and William Barkly, "commis-
sioners for the gulf and river of Canada," charging
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138 MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OF STIRLING.
them forthwith to restore to the French the fort and
habitation of Kebeck (Quebec), consequent on the
recent arrangement with the French king (Reg. of
Letters). Yet on the 15th August, Sir William was
despatched to Scotland with the following missive to
the Privy Council :
" (Charles E.)
**^Tru8tie, &a Wheras our late deare father, out of his pious
zeall for the advancement of religion in the remote parts of his
dominions, wher it had not bene formerlie knowen, and out of
his royall care for the honour and well of that our ancient King-
dome, was pleased to annex to the Crown therof the dominion
of New Scotland in America, that the vse of it might aryse to
the benefite of that Kingdome, we being desyreous that the
wished eflFects might follow by the continuance of so noble a
designe, wer pleased to confer particular marks of our favour
vpon suche as should volimtarlie contribute to the furtherance of
a plantation to be establisched in these boundis, as appeared by
our erecting of that order of baronetts, wherewith yow ar
dignifeid, wherunto we have ever since bene willing to add what
further we conceaved to be necessarie for the testifeying our
respect to these that ar alreadie interested, and for encourageing
of them who shall heirefter interest themselffis in the advance-
ment of a work which we so reallie tender for the Glorie of God,
the honour of that nation, and the benefite that is lykUe to
flow from the right prosecution of it But in regard that not-
withstanding the care and diligence of our Eight, &c., the
Viscount of Stirling, whom we have from the beginning en-
trusted with the prosecution of this work, and of the great
charges alreadie bestowed vi)on it, hath not takin the root which
was expected, partlie, as we conceave, by reasone of the incom-
moditeis ordinarlie incident to all new and remote beginnings,
and partlie, as we are informed, by want of the tymelie con-
currance of a sufficient number to insist in it ; bot especiallie
the Colonie being forced of late to remove for a tjme by meanes
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MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OP STIRLING. 139
of a Treatie we have had with the French : Thairfor, We have
takin into our royall consideratioun by what meanes agane may
this work be establisched ; and conceaving that there ar none
of our subjects whom it concemeth so much in credit to be
affectioned to the progres of it as these of your number for juste-
fieing the groundis of our princelie favours, which yow have re-
ceaved by a most honorabiU and generous way, we haue thoght
fitt to direct the bearer heirof. Sir William Alexander, Kny*, vnto
yow, who hath been ane actor in the former proceidingis, and
hath sene the cimtrie, and knowen the commoditeis therof, who
win communicat vnto yow such propositions as may best serve
for making the right vse heirefter of a plantation & trade in
these boundis for encouraging such as shall adventure therein.
And we doubt not bot if yow find the groundis reasonable and
fair, you will give your concurrance for the further prosecution
of them. And as We have alreadie gevin ordour to our Advocat
for drawing such warrands to pass under our sealls ther, wherby
our loveing subjects may be fired from all misconstruction of our
proceidingis with the French anent New Scotland, and secured
of our protection in tjrme cuming in ther vndertakeris vnto it,
80 we shalbe ready to contribute what we shall heirefter find we
may justlie doe for the advancement of the work, and the en-
couragement of all that shall joyne with yow to that purpois.
Which recommending vnto your care, we bid you fareweU.
^'Beawlib, 15 Aiigust 1632 " (Keg. of Letters).
Whether, on the royal assurance that New Scotland
was to be maintained as a British colony, or irre-
spective of benefits arising from grants of land in
transatlantic r^ons, patents of baronetcy continued
to be sought for. Six baronets were created in 1629,
and thirteen persons accepted the new honours in
the two following years.
Unable to eflFect a settlement on the land. Lord
Stirling joined a cause whereby he obtained an
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140 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
occupancy of the ocean. A joint-stock company
for conducting the business of fishing on the west
coast of Scotland, with headquarters in the isle
of Lewis, was established in 1629. The company
employed two hundred vessels varying from thirty to
fifty tons burden, and conducted a considerable trade.
With the company Lord Stirling became acquainted
consequent on being, in 1632 and previously, defender
in an action raised against him by certain citizens of
Lubeck, respecting a vessel belonging to them cap-
tured on the Scottish coast, and which had been
assigned him as a prize by the Commissioners of
Marine (Reg. of Letters). Offering his services to
the company, he obtained for them letters patent, and
was named one of the twelve members of council
(Acta ParL Scot., vol. v., p. 239). At his suggestion
the king issued in the interests of the company a
proclamation restraining the killing, dressing, and
eating flesh in Lent, or on fish days appointed by law
(Rymer's Foedera, 1626, vol. xviii., fol. 822). But
the company experienced an embarrassing opposition
from the islanders and others, and though its affairs
were conducted with energy, they did not prosper
(Slafter's Sir William Alexander, pp. 93, 94).
In the midst of his public avocations Lord Stirling
found some Jeisure for literary pursuits. Subsequent
to the death of the poet Drayton, which took place
on the 23d December 1631, he received from William
Drummond of Hawthomden the following letter :
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 141
" The death of M. D., your great freind, hath beene very gree-
U0U8 to all those which loue the Muses heere; cheeflie that hee
should haue left this world before he had perfected the Northern
part of his Polyolbion : that it brake off that noble worke, of the
Northern part of the Polyolbion which had beene no litle honour
to our Country. All wee can doe to him is to honour his
Memorya If your L. can get those fragments, remaines, of his
Worke which conceme Scotland, wee shall endeauour to put
them in this Country to the presse, with a dedication, if it shall
be thoght expedient, to your L., with the best remembrances his
loue to this Country did deserue. Of all the good race of Poets
who wrot in the tyme of Queen Elizabeth, your L. now alone
remaines.
*' Daniel, Syluester, Bang James, Done (Donne), and now Dray-
ton, who, besides his loue and kindlye obseruance of your L.,
hath made twice honourable mention in his Workes of your L.,
long since in his Odes, and latelie in Elegies, 1627 :
" * So Scotland sent ns hither for onr owen
That man whose name I euer would haue knowen.
To stand by myne, that most ingenious Knight,
My Alexander, to whom in his right
I want extreamlfe ; yet in speaking thus
I doe just show the loue that was twixt vs,
And not his numbers, that wer braue and hie,
So like his Mind was his cleare Poede.'
" If the date of a Picture of his be just, he hath lined three
score and eight yeeres, but shall line by all likelihead so long as
men speake English after his death. I, who neuer saw him,
sane by his letters and poesie, scarce beleive hee is yet dead;
and would fain misbelieue veritye, if it were possible.
"The Town of Eden[burgh] bussie themselves verye much for
the erecting of pageants for the King's M. Entrie. Some haue
written to us from Court, notwithstanding of his Highnesse good
intention to receaue his Crown in Scotland, it is impossible this
yeere hee can see vs, considering the great eflfaires of Germanye.
Now I have continewed my letter too long, considering the
many other papers your L. hath to read. — ^From your L. most
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142 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLmG.
affectionat Seruant, W. D[rummond] " (Hawthomden MSS.
Adv. library).
The coronation of Charles L at Edmburgfa, to
which Dmmmond refers, was postponed till the fol-
lowing year. In his '' Epigrammata/' published in
1632, Arthur Johnston, the Latin poet, celebrated
Lord Stirling in the following epigram.
" Confer Alexandros : Macedo yictridbiiB armifly
Magnus erat, Scotos carmine, msgor ater." *
At the close of 1627 he completed his metrical
translation of the Psalms, which, with the approbation
of Charles I., was to be styled King James' version.
On the 28th December 1627, the Attorney-General
was authorised to grant him the sole right of publish-
ing the new version by the following warrant :
" Trustie, &c. Whereas our late most deere & Eoyall Father,
King James, of blessed memorie, did, in his lifetime, translate
the Psahnes of David in meeter, which Psahnes soe translated,
ourpleasoure is, shalbe imprinted and published, the Psahnes of
David, translated by King James ; and our farther pleasure, that
our trustie and welbeloved S"^ William Alexander, our Secretarie
of State for o' Bealme of Scotland, and his assignes, shall
have licence for the sole imprinting, selhng, & disposing of the
same, within o' realmes of England & Ireland, & dominion of
Wales, for xxi years, notwithstanding any law or statut to
the contrarie. Together with such priveleges, clauses, and bene-
fittes, as in such grantes are usuell, and as to you shalbe
thought fitt, and that noe other person or persons, during the
said term of one and twentie years, without hcence or consent
*" Compare the Alezanden. The Macedonian hj his conqnering anna was
greats the Scot by his poetic gifts : which of the two is greater t "
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 143
of (^ said servant or his assignois, shall imprint, sell, or dispose
of the samine within our said realme of England and Ireland,
& the dominion of Wales. These are therefore to require you,
calling unto you, Eichard Hadfore, Esq'., one of o' learned
Counsell for o* affairs for our said kingdom of Ireland, to pre-
pare a bill fitt for o' signature aecordingUe, for which this shall
be your warrant.
« Whitehall, tJie 28th Decentber 1627.
** To our trustie & welbeloved Sir Eobert Hath, Knight, our
Attomey-GeneralL"
Archbishop Spotswood of St Andrews and his
clergy were required to certify the suitableness of
the new version in the following despatch:
"To THE Abchbishop OF St ANDROia
* (Charles R)
** Bight, &c. Having caused peruse the translation of the
Psalmes (whareof o' late dere Father was author) by learned
divines, whoe found it to be exectlie & treulie done, and intend-
ing to be allowed to be sung in all the churches of this o* king-
dom. Before wee proceed tharein, in that o' kingdom, wee have
sent you a copie thareof, to be perused by you, or by such as
shall have directioun from you to that effect. It is our plesour
if you find the said work to be weel don, and worthie to be sung
in churches, That you, with advice of y' bretherin, haveing
dewlie considered of the same, give order how it may be most
convenientlie don, which, recommending unto your care, as a
purpose specially concerning us," etc. (Beg. of Letters).
take the English bishops, the primate of the Scotr
tish Church kept silence. But the publication of the
Psalm-book had been fully determined on. Before
Midsummer 1631 it was issued in the two forms of
octavo and duodecimo from the press of William
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144 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Turner, printer to the University of Oxford. The
title-page was inscribed : '' The Psahnes of King
David, translated by King James." Fronting the
title-page was the following warrant :
« (Charles R).
" Haueing caused this Translation of the Psalmes (whereof
cure late deare Father was Author) to be perused^ and it being
found to be exactly and truely done, wee doe hereby authorize
the same to be imprinted, according to the Patent graunted there-
upon, and doe allow them to be song in all the Churches of cure
Dominiones, recommending them to aU oure goode Subjects for
that effect."
By a royal letter, dated 14th June, the English
bishops were commanded to introduce the new version
into all the schools under their control (Reg. of
Letters).
Contemporaneously with the publication of the
Psalm-book, Lord Stirling obtained another privilege,
which also promised emolument. On his reconmien-
dation the Scottish Privy Council petitioned the king
to issue a smaU copper coin for the convenience of
the common people. Accordingly, his Majesty, on
the 30th June 1631, gave conmiission to '' Nicholas
Briot, chief graver to the English Mint, to prepare
dies and other instruments necessary for coining
copper farthings, and to send them under direction
of Viscount Stirling to the Mint at Edinburgh, and
also to repair thither personally to establish and
superintend the works" (Reg. of Letters). Briot
was the most expert coin-engraver of the period.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 145
Originally connected with the French Mint, he left it
in 1628, and repairing to England, was appointed to
his important oflSce. He was the first artist who
exhibited in Britain a coin carved with letters upon
the edge (Slafter's Copper Coinage).
On the 10th of July Charles directed the Treasurer
of Scotland to pay Lord Stirling the royalty on the
copper coinage. The precept is in these words :
" (Chakles R)
'* In regard to the good and faythfull service done vnto ws by
Sir William Alexander, our Secretaries it is Our pleasur that
yow delvyer vnto him for his vse all and whole the moneyis
that doe or shall belong vnto ws (as feyis justlie. due being
defrayed), for our share by the coyneing of the farthing tokens, or
of any such copper coyne as yow shall think fitt to be coyned,
by vertew of our warrant that yow think necessaiie heirin; fifor
doeing wherof, in delyvering the same to him, by vertew of this
warrant, or of drawing vp of another, these ar to secure yow as
a sufficient discharge and warrant
" GREEirwiCH, 10 July 1631."
The original scheme being unproductive, the king
on the 13th December informed the Rrivy Council
that he had abandoned the project of issuing
farthings, and desired that coins of three diflFerent
denominations should be issued in their stead. The
royal letter is in these terms :
"Eight, &c. Wheras vpon our pleasur formerlie signifeid
vnto yow, tuitchin^ the Copper Coyne, yow gave ordour for
coyneing of fyfbene hundreth stone wecht of Copper vnto farthing
tokens of the lyk weght and value as thay ar current in this
Kingdome, being now informed by our right, &c., the Viscount
of Stirling, our principal! Secretarie ther, that diverse of our
K
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146 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
loveing subjects conceave the division of the penny sterling
formerlie vsed to be more convenient for exchange and reckon-
yng then the new division into four farthings, and that (for
avoyding the danger of counterfitting, and for the more exact-
nesse of the impression) it is thoght fitt to mak the copper
money of a greater proportion of weght. Our pleasur is that the
said quantitie of Copper be coyned in severall spaces of penny,
two penny and four penny peices, and that a fyftene psirt therof
be coyned vnto pennyis weying eight granes the peice (being
the weght formerlie allowed by yow to the farthings), and the
remanent quantitie be equall devision into two and four penny
peices of proportionable weght to the penny, causing distinguish
them be ther bearing on the one syd the figure or number of
their value under an Imperiall Croun with our Inscription, and
on the vther the TMstle with the vsual Motto, and that ther be
made of the said thrie peices the said quantitie of Copper so or-
deaned by yow to have been coyned in farthings, with what addi-
tion yow shall now or heirefter think fitt in regard of the alteration
of the weght of the peices, and as the necessitie of the countree
shaU requyre. Which Coyne we will to have course amongst our
subjects for the vse of the poore, and change of small com-
moditeis without any other imposition in the payment of great
sowmes then hath bene formerlie accustomed in the Copper
Coyne of that our kingdome, or shall from tyme to tyme seme
expedient unto yow. And in regard of the necessitie of a speedie
retume hither for occasion concerneing our service of Nicolas
Bryot, our cheif graver of our Mynt heir, whom we directit
thither for coyneing these moneyis, We speciallie recommend
unto yow that no farder delay be made in putting that work to
perfection.
"Whythall, 13 Decemb^ 1631."
The result of this new arrangement we shall leam
subsequently.
During the months of autumn. Lord Stirling usually
resided at ll^enstry. His personal expenses in Scot-
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 147
land were latterly defrayed by the Exchequer. As
commissioner to the Convention of the Estates, the
treasurer-depute was, on the 28th July 1631, required
to defray the expenses of his visit to Scotland during
that year and the preceding. The king also com-
manded that his expenses in Scotland should be paid
so long as he was engaged in the public service
(Eeg. of Letters).
Created a peer. Lord Stirling sought to vindicate
his rank by obtaining a grant of arms. His im-
mediate progenitors were feudatories of the noble
House of Argyle, but he was sprung from the clan
MacAlexander in Kintyre. To his residence at Men-
stry he invited Archibald Alexander of Tarbert, chief
of the clan. They were together elected burgesses
of Stirling on the 10th August 1631 (Stirlmg Burgh
Records). Before separating, the representative of
the clan MacAlexander surrendered his birthright, jac-
cepting Lord Stirling as his chief This eflTect^d, Sir
James Balfour, Lyon King of Arms, was, in a royal
letter, dated Newmarket, 15th March 1632, instructed
^' to marshall his Coate Armour, allowing it to him,
quartered with the armes of clan AUaster, who hath
acknowledged him for chief of their familie." The
royal letter was accompanied with a draught of the
proposed grant, while the Lyon King was charged to
embody in the escutcheon the arms of New Scotland.
The coat of arms granted to Viscount Stirling is
thus described :
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148
MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
"Alexander, Earle oflf Stirline, Lord Alexander of Cannada,
etc., Bairyeth quarterlie : First, parted per palei arg. and sable, a
chiveron with a croisant in bass counterchanged for his patemall
coat. Secondlie, or, a lumfad raes in croce sable betuixt thrie
croce croslet gnles by the name of M® ; the thrid as the
second ; the fourt as the first Over all ane Inscutcheon with
the armes of Nova Scotia, viz., arg. a crose azur with the armes
of Scotland ; aboue the scheild his comitall crounet ; upon the
same, his helme and mantle guls doubled ermine. For his
creist, on a wreath arg. sable, a bever proper. For supporters a
Savaidge and a Marmaid, combe in hand. His Motto, Per Mare
per terras*' (MS. in Lyon Office).
A mansion befitting his rapiik was Lord Stirling's
next project. He had already rebuilt or enlarged
the family residence at Menstry, which, even as a
ruin, presents a massive and not inelegant aspect.
Inclosing a quadrangular court, it is entered by
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
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a handsome archway. Around are gardens and
orchards, and the situation at the base of the heath-
clad Ochils is romantic and beautiful. But Lord
Stirling felt that as a peer he should occupy a lordly
dwelling, while his title suggested its erection in the
town whence it was derived. Anthony, his second
son, who had studied architecture abroad, and held
office as Master of Works, was, in October 1632,
admitted a burgess of Stirling (Stirling Burgh Ee-
cords). There he selected a site for the contemplated
mansion. The spot chosen was the best possible.
Immediately adjoining the nobly decorated structure
of Mar's Work and the entrance to the castle, the
view on every side is commanding and beautiful.
On the north-west, the horizon is bounded by the
gigantic crests of the Grampian mountains. North-
eastward are the verdant and massive Ochils, guard-
ing a plain diversified with crag, wood, and water.
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150 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
and presenting, in its centre, the serpent-like fold-
ings of the Forth. To the south is Bannockbum,
consecrated by patriotic valour; and on the south-
west the Lennox hills. The immediate environs are
historically interesting. Ballingeich Pass, associated
with the chivalrous adventures of the fifth James,
extends north-eastward. In the immediate front is
the Valley, a level portion of the castle-hill, the scene
of tournament and courtly pastime. South-westward
on the shoulders of the rock extended a series of
terraced gardens ; and beneath was the Eound Table,
where courtly knights held revel, and the King's
Park, where had been practised royal sports.
On such a site an ingenious architect had abundant
scope to exercise his skill Anthony Alexander was
equal to his task. He designed an edifice of graceful
and elegant proportions. A square structure, with
two projecting wings, the back and front displayed
a series of dormer windows, with a profuse distribu-
tion of semi-classic mouldings. The baron's hall,
occupying a portion of the second floor, was a lofty
apartment, panelled with oak, with massive chimney-*
piece, elegantly sculptured and richly gilded. The
staircase was protected by a massive balustrade of
carved oak. In the centre of the front wall, over
the entrance porch, an elegant sculpture, still entire,
displayed the armorial escutcheon of the noble owner.
As the erection of the mansion was proceeded with,
money was urgently needed. Lord Stirling lost no
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
151
opportunity of acquiring it. Anne Nasmyth, daughter
of the late John Nasmyth, chirurgeon to James VI.,
was on the eve of her marriage. As an heiress, she
was bound to pay into the Exchequer certain dues
of " ward, nonentrie, and marriage." These were, by
a royal warrant, dated 12th October 1632, transferred
to Lord Stirling (Reg. of Letters).
Though the New Scotland scheme was still advo-
cated both by Lord Stirling and his eldest son, baron-
etcies in connection with the enterprise ceased to be
sought after. Fertile in expedients. Lord Stirling
suggested that the area of distributing honours should
be extended. Accordingly, on the 24th April 1633,
the king published a royal letter, addressed to the
Commissioners for the Plantation of New Scotland,
in which he desired them to assure his loyal subjects
in England and Ireland that they might obtain baron-
etcies in connection with the colony without extra
fees. His Majesty also informed the Commissioners
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152 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
that, notwithstanding his arrangement with the French
king, he had not abandoned his right to New Scot-
land, but would certainly carry on the plantation
" by compleiting of the intendit number of Knight
Baronetts as other wayes " (Reg. of Letters).
Both in Scotland and Ireland the new movement
proved unpopular. The Irish Court of CShancery was
successfully moved to deprive Lord Stirling of his
lands in Ulster, imder the plea that he had not fill-
filled the conditions of his grant by planting his lands
with Scottish or English settlers;* and the first
Irishman created a baronet was, by the authorities
in Scotland, subjected to insult. This was Peirs
Corsbie, a member of the Irish Privy Council, whose
patent was stopped by the Chancellor of Scotland,
on account of his being an associate of Lord Ochiltree,
who, for falsely accusing the Marquis of Hamilton of
high treason, had forfeited his patent and been sub-
jected to imprisonment Corsbie afterwards received
his patent through a royal order. He was in March
1633 assured of the royal protection (Eeg. of Letters).
Charles I. was crowned at Holyrood Palace on the
14th June 1633. On the occasion. Lord Stirling was
advanced to the dignity of an earl, with the additional
title of Viscount Canada. From the poet William
* The court held that ''Henry Duff 0*ConneIlan, a mere Iriahman, hath in-
habited upon one quarter of the town of MullaligliBse, granted to Sir William
Alexander, Knt, by letters patent, said quarter being undertaker's land, and
contrary to the conditions " (Inquisitionum Cancellari« Hibemiie Repertorium,
1088).
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MEMORIAI^S OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 153
Habington he received the following congratulatory
ode :
'* To THB BlOHT HONOURABLB AND SXOKLLENTLT-LBAEKED WlLUAM EaRL OF
St(srling).
"My Loud,
" The Lanrell doth yonr reverend temples wreath
As aptly now as when your youth did breath
Those tragick raptnres, which yonr name shall save
From the black edict of a tyrant grave.
Nor shall your Day ere set, till the Sunne shall
From the blind Heavens like a cinder fall ;
And all the elements intend their strife
To mine what they fram'd ; then your Fame's life.
When desp'rate Time lies gasping, shall expire.
Attended by the world, i' th' generall fire.
Fame lengthens thus her selfe ; and I, to tread
Yonr steps to glory, search among the dead.
Where Yertne lies obscnr'd, that as I give
Life to her tombe, I, spight of time, may live.
Now I resolve, in triumph of my verse.
To bring great Talbot firom that forren* hearse,
Which yet doth to her fright his dnst enclose ;
Then to sing Herbert, who so glorious rose
With the fourth Edward, that his fedth doth shine
Yet in the faith of noblest Pembroke's line.
Sometimes my swelling spirits I prepare
To speak the mighty Percy, neerest heire
In merits as in blood, to Charles the great ;
Then Barbie's worth and greatness to repeat.
Or Morley's honour, or Monteagle's fame,
Whose valour lives etemiz'd in his name ;
But while I think to sing these of my blood.
And my Castara's, Love's unruly flood
Breaks in, and beares away whatever standee
Built by my busie Fancy on the sands."
—HdbvngUnCa Ocutara, 1684, 8vo, p. 288.
The earl added to the family estate. On the 12th
July 1634 he received, under the Great Seal, a charter
of the lands of Tillicoultry, " including the lands of
Balhart, Drumny, Schanniet, Cosnachtane, Colums-
* Buried at Kouen.
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154 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
danache, with the mill of Caimtown, and others,"
which formerly belonged to James, Lord Colvill of
Culross — ^the whole lands, with the town of Tilli-
coultry, being erected into a burgh of barony, to be
held of the king on the annual payment of £55 Scots
(Eeg. Mag. Sig., Ub. Uv., No. 268),
By a royal letter, dated 18th October 1633, the
Privy Council was enjoined to satisfy Lord Stirling
and his '' creditors " as to his claims on " the copper
money." As the council remained silent, the Trea-
surer of Exchequer received, on the 18th September
1634, the following missive :
" (Charles R)
" Eight, &c. "Wheras, in considerationn of a precept of 6000
lib. Stg., granted be our late dear Father to our right trustie
and weil-beloved Cousen and Counsellour, the Erie of Stirling,
ovr principaU Secretarie for Scotland, for good and faythfoll
service done by him, and of a warrant of Ten Thousand Funds
granted by ws vnto him vpon verie good considerations, as may
appear by the same. We wer pleased to grant vnto him the bene-
fite arysing by the coynage of the Copper money within that
our kingdome for the space of nyne yeres and furder, till he
should be compleitlie payed of all sowmes whatsumever due by
ws vnto him : Now to the effect our said servant may have the
more assurance to mak bargayne with others anent ihe said
benefite for his releiff, and that ther may be a certane tyme
appoynted for his payment, and /or our haveing the benefite of
the said Coyne to retume vnto ws. We doe heirby ratifie vnto
him his grant of the whole benefite arysing dew vnto ws of that
Copper Coyneage during the time yit to rin of that his patent :
And it is bur speciall pleasur that yow grant a warrant such as
shalbe requisite of coynadge of sex thowsand stane weght of
Copper, without intromission, inmiediatlie efber the ending of
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 156
the Coynadge of 1500 staine weght presentlie in hand^ and for
continewing of the Coynadge efter the full periyteing of the said
6000 stane from yeir to yeir for the accustomed quantitie as we
coyned these two yeires past, and that dureing the whole tyme
yit to run of his patent, if ther sail ony of it remane efter the
fuU perfyteing of the Coynadge of the 6000 stane : And that yow
give ordour to our Advocat for drawing vp a sufficient discharge
of the saids two precepts, to be signed by our said servant, with
a discharge to him from ws of his intromission, with any benefite
arysing with the Coynadge dureing the tyme past or to cum
of his patent (of the which we doe lykewayes heirby discharge
him), and that without any accompt to be made vnto ws, or in
any our name, for the same, in regard of his discharge of his
saids two precepts : And cans registrat this our letter, and mak
such order in Counsell and Exchequer as may be most expedient
for the farder securitie and satisfaction of our said servant, or such
as he shaU have occasion to treat or baigane with for making the
best advantage of this our gratious intention towards him : flfor
doeing wherof,thir presents shalbe vnto yowane sufficient warrant.
"Theobalds, 18 Septemb&r 1634" (Eeg. of Letters).
As the copper money yielded no substantial profit,
these appeals were fruitless. But Lord Stirling,
whose afiairs were becoming desperate, determined
not to abandon his eflForts to profit by the coinage.
Obtaining for John Alexander, his fourth son, the
ofGice of General of the Mint, he recalled the copper
farthing, and issued in its place a coin of the same
weight, which was made to pass as of the value of
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156 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
two farthings. The new coins were called turners^
probably so named from Toumois, a term applied
to coins struck at Tours, in France. Their use was
strongly resisted by the common people.
To Lord Stirling the coinage now yielded a sub-
stantial profit, and he proposed to acquire further
benefit by mining and smelting the ore. The Earl of
Melrose being induced to resign the oflfice of Master
of Metals, John Alexander was, on the 20th August
1635, appointed as his successor (Reg. Mag. Sig., lib.
iv. ; Paper Register, p. 60). The new project did
not suit, and was speedily abandoned. On. the 16th
January 1635-6, letters patent imder the Great Seal
were granted to James, Marquis of Hamilton, James
Maxwell of Innerwick, gentleman of the king's bed-
chamber, and John Seaton of Mounie, giving them
" power and commission to explore and make mines,
and search for gold, silver, copper, and all other
metals, within any part of the kingdom of Scotland,
except the five-merks land of Watterheid, otherwise
called Glengowerheid, belonging to the heirs of um-
quhile Robert Foullis, advocate*' (Reg. Mag. Sig.,
lib. iv., No. 120, foL 142 J).
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CHAPTER VI.
MEMOIR OF SIR WILLIAM ALEXANDER, EARL OF STIRLING
— ^FROM HIS LATEST ATTEMPT TO ESTABLISH A SCOT-
TISH COLONY IN CANADA TO THE CLOSE OF HIS
PUBLIC ENTERPRISES.
We last heard of New Scotland in the royal letter of
the 24th April 1633, when Charles I. intimated to
his loving subjects of England and Ireland that they
might obtain patents of baronetcy without being
charged fees in excess of those exacted from natives
of Scotland. On the 11th May thereafter. Sir Wil-
liam Alexander obtained a royal patent " for the sole
trade in all and singular the regions, coimtreys, dom-
inions, and all places whatsoever adjacent to the
river and gulf of Canada, and the sole traffick from
thence and the places adjoyning, for beaver skins and
wool, and all other skins of wild beasts, for 31 yeares "
(Colonial Papers, p. 165). On the 28th June, the
Scottish Parliament ratified Lord Stirling's privileges,
in connection with New Scotland, by the following
Act:
" Our Soveraigne Lord and Estates of this present Parliament
Batifie and approve all letters patents and infeftments^ granted
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158 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
by Eling James the Sixth of blessed memorie, or by our said
Soveraigne Lord, unto William, Viscount of Sterling, and to his
heirs and assignes, of the Territories & Dominions of New Scot-
land and Canada in America, and especially the Patent, Charter,
and Infeftment, granted by his Majestie's umquhile dearest
Father of worthy memorie, of New Scotland, of the date the
tenth day of September, the year of God 1621. Item, another
charter of the same, granted by his Majestie, under the great
Seale, of the date the twelfth day of July 1625 years. Item,
another charter & infeftment, granted by his Majestie, of the
Countrie & Dominion of New Scotland, imder the great Seale,
of the date the third of May 1627 yeares. Item, another char-
ter & infeftment, granted by his Mat^, imder the great Seale,
of the Biver and Gulf of Canada, bounds and priviledges thereof,
mentioned in the said patent, of the date the second day of Feb-
ruarie 1628 years. Item, a signature passed under his Majestie's
hand, of the said Coimtrie and Dominion, which is to be with
all diligence exped through the Scales, of the date at Whitehall,
the twenty-fourth day of Aprill 1633 years. With all liberties,
priviledges,honnours, jurisdictions, and dignities respective, therein
mentioned. Together also with all execution, precepts, instru-
ments of seasings, and seasings following, or that shall happen
to follow thereupon. And also ratifies & approves the Act of
General Conventioun of Estates at Hol]nrude house, the sexth day
of July, the year of God 1630, whereby the ssdd Estates have
ratified and approved the dignities and order of Knight Baronet,
with all the Acts of Secret Counsell and Proclamations follow-
ing thereupon, made for maintaining of the said dignitie, place,
and precedencie thereof. And his Majestie & Estates foresaid
will, statute, & ordaine that the said Letters Patents, Charters,
& Infeftments, and the said dignitie, title, and order of Baronets,
and all letters patent, & infeftments of lands and dignities,
granted therewith to any person whatsoever, shall stand & con-
tinue in full force, with all liberties, priviledges^ and prece-
dencies thereof, according to the tenour of the sama And in
als ample maner as if the bodies of the said letters patents, in-
feftments, and signature above mentioned, were herein particu-
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 15&
larly ingrost & exprest And ordaine intimation to be made
hereof, by open proclamation, to all his Majestie's lieges, at the
market crosse of Edinburgh and other places needful, that none
pretend ignorance hereof" (Acta ParL Scot., voL v., p. 43).
The preceding statute was, like one of similar
import passed previously, intended to satisfy the
baronets of New Scotland as to the validity of their
titles, notwithstanding the evacuation of the territory
with which these titles were associated.
The royal warrant for £10,000 sterling Lord Stir-
ling had received for losses sustained in connection
with his colonial enterprise, he had become satisfied
would not procure, from an impoverished exchequer
and its reluctant barons, any portion of money. In
the circumstances he desired to secure new posses-
sions in transatlantic regions. At his instance a
royal letter was, on the 5th January 1634-5, ad-
dressed to Sir Ferdinand Gorges, of the Council of
New England, requesting his attendance at court,
that he might there give counsel respecting colonial
affairs (Reg. of Letters). On the 29th day of the
same month, the Commissioners for Plantations,
including Sir Ferdinand Gorges, met in St Martin's
Lane, London, when the Earl of Stirling and Lord
Alexander were admitted councillors and patentees
of the New England Company (Colonial Papers).
After certain negotiations, the Council of New Eng-
land granted to Lord Alexander "that part of the
mainland in New England, from St Croix, adjoining
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160 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
New Scotland, along the sea coast to Pemaquid, &
so up the river to the Kiuebequi (Keuebeck), to be
henceforth called the County of Canada; also the
Island of Matowack or Long Island, to the west of
Cape Cod, to be hereafter called the Isle of Sterling,
to be holden of the Council and their successors per
gladium comitattis, that is to say, to find four able
men armed for war, to attend upon the governor of
New England for the public service, within fourteen
days after warning given."
Extended on parchment, the grant proceeded in
these terms :
" To all Christian people vnto whom theis presents shall come,
The Coimcell for the affaires of New England send greetinge in
our Lord God everlastinge. Whereas our late Souraigne Lord
Elinge James of blessed memory, by his highnes Letters Patente
vnder the Greate Seale of England, bearing date att Westminster,
the Thirde daye of November in the eighteenth yeare of his
Ma^*^ raigne ouer his highnes Bealme of England, for the con- ,
sideration in the said Letters Patente expressed and declared,
hath absolutely given, graunted, and confirmed vnto the said
Counsell, and their successors for euer, all the lands of Newe
England in America, lyinge and beinge in breadth from fortie
degrees of Northerly latitude from the EquinoctiaU lyne to
fortie-eight degrees of the said Northerly latitude inclusivelie,
and in length of and within all the breadth aforesaid throughout
the maine land from Sea to Sea. Together alsoe with all the
Grme lands, soyles, grounde, havons, ports, rivers, waters, fish-
inge, mynes, and mineralls, as well Boyall mynes of Gold and
Silver as other mynes and mineralls, pretious stones, quarries,
and all and singular other commodities, jurisdictions, royalties,
previledges, franchises, and preheminences, both within the
said trade of land vppon the Maine, and also within the
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 161
Islands and Seas adjoininge (as by the said Letters Patents
amongst diners other things therein conteyned more att large it
doth and may appettre). Now know all men by these presents
that the said Counsdl of New England in America beinge
assembled in publiqne Conrte, accordinge to an Acte made and
agreed vppon the thirde day of jBtebruary last past before the
date of theis presents, for diners gnd causes and consideracions
them herevnto especially movinge, have given, grannted, aliened,
bargayned, and sold, And in and by theis presents doe for
them and theire Successors give, grannt, alien, bargaine, sell,
and confirme vnto the right honorable William Lord Alexander,
his heires and assignes, All that part of the Maine Land of
Newe England aforesaid, beginninge from a certaine place
called or knowne by the name of Saint Croix next adjoininge
to New Scotland in America aforesaid, and from thence
extendinge alonge the Sea Coast vnto a certaine place called
Pemaquid, and Soe vpp the Eiver thereof to the furthest head
of the same as it tendeth Northwarde, and extendinge from
thence att the nearest vnto the Eiver of Kiuebequi, and so
upwards alonge by the shortest course which tendeth vnto
the Biver of Canada, fi&om henceforth to be called and knowne
by the name of the Countie of Canada. And also all that
Island or Islands heretofore comonly called by the severaU
name or names of Matowack or Longe Island, and hereafter
to be called by the name of the Isle of Starlinge, situate
lyinge and beinge to the westward of Cape Codd or the Narohi-
ganlets, within the latitude of ffortie or fortie-one degrees or
thereabouts, abuttinge vpon the Maineland betweene the two
Eivers there knowne by the severall names of Conectecutt and
Hudson's Eiver, and contejminge in length from East to West
the whole length of the Sea Coast there betweene the said two
Eivers. Together with all and singular havens, harbours,
creekes, and Islands, imbayed, and all Islands and Iletts lyinge
within f&ve leagues distance of the Maine, beinge opposite and
abuttinge vpon the premises, or any part thereof, not formerly
lawfully graunted to any by speciaU name. And all mynes,
minerails, quarries, soyles, and woods, marishes, rivers, waters,
h
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162 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
lakes, fi&shings, hawkinge, huntinge, and fifowlinge, and all other
Boyalties, jurisdiccions, priviledges, prehementes, proffits, com*
modities, and hereditaments whatsoener^ with all and singular
these and eueiy of theire appurtenente& And together alsoe
with all Bents reserued, and the benefitt of all prof&ts due to
them, the said Counsell and their Successors and precincts afore*
said, to be exercised and executed accordinge to the Lawes of
England, as neere as may be by the said William Lord Alex-
ander, his heires or assignes, or his or theire Deputies^ lieu-
tenents. Judges, Stewards, or Officers therevnto by him or them,
or theire Assignes, deputed or appointed from time to time, with
all other priviledges, franchises, liberties, immunities, escheates»
and casualties thereof arriseing, or which shall or may hereafter
arise within the said limitte and precincts, with all theire intrest,
right, title, claime, and demand whatsoeuer, which the said
Councell and their Successors now of right have, at ought to have
or claime, or may haue or acquire hereafter, in or to the said
portion of Lands or Islands, or any the premises, and in as free^
ample, large, and beneficiall manner to all intents, constructions,
and purposes what so euer as the said Councell, by vertue of his
Ma^*^ said Letters Patent, may or can graunt the same : Saucing
and allwayes reseruinge vnto the said Councell and their Suc-
cessors power to receaue, heare, and determine all and singular
appeale and appeales of eueiy person and persons whatsoeuer
dwellinge or inhabitinge within Hie said Territories and Islands^
or any part thereof, soe graunted as aforesaid, of and from all
judgements and sentences whatsoeuer given within the said
lands and Territories aforesaid. To haue and to holde all and
singular the lands and premises aboue by theis presents graunted
(excepte before excepted), with all and all manner of proffitts.
commodities, and hereditaments whatsoeuer within the landa
and precincts aforesaid to the said lands. Islands, and premises,
or any of them, in any wise belonginge or apperteyninge vnto
the said William Lord Alexander, his heires and assignes. To
the only proper use and behoofe of him, the said William Lord
Alexander, his heires and assignes, for euer. To be holden of the
said Councell, and their Successors for euer, one fift part of all
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 163
the . . . are of the mynes of gold and sUver which shalbe had,
possessed, or obteyned within the limitte or precincts aforesaid
for all rents, seruices, dueties, and demaunds whatsoeuer due vnto
the said Councell and their Successors &om plantacion within
the precincts aforesaid. The same to be deliuered vnto his
Ma**^ Eeceiver or deputie, or deputies assignes ... to the use
of his Ma*^, his heires and successors, from . . . the Lands, pre-
cincts, and Territories of New England foresaid . . . the two
and twentie day of [Aprill 1635] and 11th yeare of the Eaigne."
On the 25th April 1635, three days after the date
of the preceding grant, the Council of New England,
having met at Whitehall, prepared a declaration for
the surrender of their great charter. This declara-
tion, which set forth " the frequent troubles and great
charges " to which they had been subjected, was, on
the 1st May, presented to the king by Edward, Lord
Gorges, as President of the Council. Instead of the
charter, the Council desired personal grants of the
lands, laid out in eight divisions on the sea-coast
of New England, to be held immediately from the
Crown. The request was complied with (Calendar
of State Papers, Colonial).
Lord Stirling appointed an agent to watch his
interest in his new territories. On the 1st November
1638, four members of the late council met at his
house in London, to prepare a memorial to the king
for an augmentation of a degree more in latitude and
longitude to such of their number as would declare
whether they would accept it to the northward or
westward (Colonial Papers).
In the spring of 1632, Lord Stirling vigorously re-
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164 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
newed his eflforts for the mtroduction of his patent
Psahns. On the 13th March of that year the Arch-
bishop of Canterbury was requested, by royal letter,
" to convene the Bishop of London, and such other
bishops nere London,*' to resolve upon some course
to introduce the new psalm-book in the diflferent
churches. Royal letters of like import were directed
to the Archbishop of St Andrews and the Arch-
bishop of Armagh, directing them to follow a similar
course in Scotland and Ireland. As the Archbishop
of Canterbury remained silent, the English clergy
were, in a royal letter, dated the 6th July, individu-
ally enjoined to recommend the new version to their
parishioners (Beg: of Letters). Like the English
primate, the Archbishops of St Andrews and Armagh
made no response. In Ireland further eflFort was
useless ; but Lord Stirling reasoned that as the Scot-
tish church was divided between adherents of episco-
pacy and presbytery, he might secure towards his
psalm-book the adhesion of one or other of the
parties. The bishops were irreconcilably opposed.
Copies of the psalm-book, deposited with the Arch-
bishop of St Andrews, were unsought after ; and no
member of the episcopal order, even on the royal com-
mand, would express approval or sanction.
Copies of the work were sent to presbyteries.
These courts considered the version, and in reports
to provincial synods, emphatically condemned it
The General Assembly adopted " Keasons against the
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 165
use of the new Metaphrase." Among these were the
following : the translation has been undertaken with-
out the sanction of the Church; the people were
satisfied with the version presently in use ; a courtier
was not well suited as a translator of Holy Writ ; and
the new version contained doubtful doctrine and
certain objectionable phrases (Reasons against the
reception of King James* Metaphrase of the Psalms.
Printed by the Bannatyne Club).
As both the bishops and General Assembly of the
Scottish Church resisted his psalm-book. Lord Stir-
ling determined that they should have no other. By
a royal letter, issued in December 1634, the Privy
Council were enjoined ''to give present ordour in
such manner as is requisite that no vther Psalmes
of any edition whatsoever be either printed heirefter
within that our kingdome, or imported thither, either
boimd by themselffs or vtherways from any forrayne
parts." At the same time the Archbishop of St
Andrews was charged to take heed '* that no Psalme
bookes in meeter of the old translation be printed or
brought in, under the pane of confiscation of the
books and other punischment " (Reg. of Letters).
Lord Stirling occupied his manor-house at Men-
stry for the last time in the autumn of 1634. Here
he composed an essay, which he styles ''Anacrisis, or
a Censure of some Poets, ancient and modem."
He transmitted it to Drummond of Hawthomden,
with the following letter :
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166 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
" to my much honoured friend,
" Mr William Drummond of Hawthornden.
" Sir, — I would have this piece appear to the world with your
name, as well for a Testimony to after-times of our Friendship
and Love, as for that, to my knowledge there is not in our
Northern Country who hath more diligently perused the Authors
cited in this Censure, and who can so universally discern of
every of them in their own language as yourselt My daily
cares at Court, and Employments in Matters of State, have not
granted me leisure to set the last Hand imto it Neither have
I went [sic] so through all, but that you (if you please) in that
Solitariness & Leisure which you enjoy, may proceed & spend
some flying Hours upon this same subject And, I am assured,
our pieces cannot but with applause & contentment be read &
embraced by the thankful Posterity, who after death shall
render to every Man what is his due. — Your loving Friend and
Brother, SxiRLma"*
The " Anacrisis/' chiefly remarkable for a pomp-
ous display of learning, is included in the appendix.
A further communication from Lord Stirling to the
poet of Hawthornden may be introduced here :
" My NOBLE Friend, — I was very glad to see your letter, but
displeased with that part thereof whereby you excuse the discon-
tinuance of writing to me; for no distance of degree nor place
should have the power to interrupt the course of so hannonious
an unitedness as hath so long continued between us.. As for the
Fairy Queen of whom you wrote to me, her apparitions of late
have bewitched so many that I find sundry ready to dance with
the Fairies; but I shall use my best means (for the Nymph's
sake that dweUeth upon the Lake) to conjure them, and shall
ever approve myself. — Your very loving Friend to serve you,
"Sterline.
" Newmarket, 22d October 1636 "'(Drummond's Works, p. 151).
* Works of William Drammond of Hawthornden. Edin. 1711. Familiar
Epifltles, No. 18.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OP STIRLING. 167
In his new residence at Stirling, which he entered
in 1635, Lord Stirling composed the first part of a
heroic poem entitled ''Jonathan." Revising his
former poems, he reproduced them, excepting the
''Aurora," in an elegant folio printed in 1637 by
Thomas Harper, and entitled " Recreations with the
Mvses." To a few copies intended for presentation
he prefixed his portrait, executed by William Marshall,
the celebrated engraver.
On entering his new residence. Lord Stirling ex-
perienced a singular insult. A portion of soiled calico
was thrown across the sculpture of his escutcheon,
on which his family motto, " Per mare, per terras," was
parodied Per metre, per turnerSy in evident allusion to
his debased coinage, and patent Psalms. But the
shaft of the satirist might not divert him from his
plans ; he resolved at all hazards to cling to his coin-
age and hisTsalms. For the latter a field in England
or Lreland might not be hoped for, but the Scottish
clergy might be won. Immediately following the
decree of December, prohibiting the printing or im-
portation of any version of the Psalms other than his
own, he evinced his zeal in the interests of the Church
by founding a parish. In a royal letter dated 5th
January 1634-5 the Commissioners of Tithes were
empowered to constitute his lands into a parish, to be
called Tullibody (Reg. of Letters).
In his version of the Psalms, the General Assembly
had, in their " Reasons " for rejecting it, pointed to
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168 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
some expressions more adapted for secular than
sacred verse, as where the moon was styled ''pale
lady of the night," and the sun was apostrophised as
" the lord of light." From a new edition, which he
proceeded to prepare. Lord Stirling eliminated these
and other objectionable phrases.
But the Scottish clergy were not to be conciliated
either by improvements in the patent version of the
Psalms, or by any friendly professions of the author.
To them Lord Stirling appeared as a politician who
was less actuated by religious sentiment than by a
desire to subserve his private interests.*
At this time Archbishop Laud was preparing his
service-book for the Scottish Church, and he was
assured by his correspondent, the Bishop of Ross,t
that Lord Stirling would facilitate its introduction,
provided an effort was put forth on behalf of his
patent Psalms. To the psalm-book Laud; as Primate
of the English Church, had already refused his sanc-
tion, but he was now disposed to concede an approval
* When ia 1682 Mr Robert Blair, the eminent Presbyterian divine, arrived in
London to plead the cause of the Irish Presbyterians, he waited on Lord Stirling,
who promised to lay his memorial before the king. " But the earl," reported Mr
Blair, ** fearing Bishop Laud more than Qod, did faint and break his promise '*
(Beid's Irish Presbyterian Church, I 40).
t John Maxwell, Bishop of Ross, was son of Maxwell of Cavers, a branch of the
family of Kirkhouse, in Nithsdale. He was ordained minister of Mortlach in
1615, and in 1622 was transferred to one of the churches of Edinbuigh. Through
the influence of his cousin, James Maxwell, afterwards Earl of Dirleton, he was
in 1633 appointed Bishop of Ross. He became intimate with Archbishop Land,
through whose recommendation he was nominated a Privy Councillor and an
Extraordinary Lord of Session. He was ultimately promoted as Archbishop of
Tuam ; he died 14th February 1646, about the age of fifty-five (Fasti Eccl. Soot.,
iiL 458).
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OP STIRLING^ 169
of it in connection with the sister establishment
With a view to its introduction simultaneously with
the service-book, he supplied Lord Stirling with
the printed sheets of that work, that it might be
produced in the same form and character of type.
Lord Stirling's new edition, a small folio, printed in
black letter, was ready early in 1636, the Psalms
being accompanied with musical notation; it was
printed at London by Thomas Harper. To modify
northern prejudices, Laud entrusted his service-book
to Robert Young, the king's printer at Edinburgh,
who undertook to have it ready in autumn. A royal
letter was issued on the 18th October, in which the
Scottish Privy Council were enjoined to make pro-
clamation, that under heavy penalties the service-
book should be used in every parish church. The
coimcil so proclaimed on the 20th December, but the
book was not yet ready. Robert Young hesitated to
issue a work which might involve him in popular
disfavour. Lord Stirling was deeply offended with
him, and in a letter to the Bishop of Ross, styled him
"the greatest knave he had ever dealt with," Young
was at length reconciled, and the service-book, printed
from a new fount of black letter, was issued from his
printing-office in the following May.*
* The work appeared under the following title, " The Booke of Common Prayer
and Administration of the Sacraments, and other parts of divine serTice, for the
use of the Chnrch of Scotland. Edinburgh : Printed by Bobert Yonng, Printer
to the King's Most Excellent Majesty, hdoxxxvii. cum priviUgio, " A unique
copy, bound up with Lord Stirling's version of the Psalm% is one of the literary
curiosities in the Library of the British Museum.
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170 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. .
After sanctioning the issue of Lord Stirling's Psalms
as a twin volume to the service-book, Archbishop
Laud became apprehensive that a recognition of it
would intensify popular distaste, and indicated a
desire to recede from his promise. It was at length
arranged, through the Bishop of Boss, that copies of
the service-book should be oflTered both with Lord
Stirling's Psalms and apart. But the purchase of
the service-book only was made compulsory on the
clergy, the price being £4, 16s. Scots.
The clergy did not hasten to purchase a work of
which the existence was obnoxious to them. So a
peremptory order was issued on the 16th July, that
within fifteen days every parish minister should pro-
vide himself with a copy.
According to royal order, the service-book was, as
a commencement, to be used in the churches of Edin-
burgh, on Sunday the 23d of July. On the morning
of that day an eager and anxious crowd thronged the
cathedral church of St Giles. Archbishop Spots-
wood of St Andrews, chancellor of the kingdom,
occupied his throne, the Bishop of Edinburgh, David
Lindsay, sat in the pulpit, and Dr James Hannay,
Dean of Edinburgh, presided at the reading-desk.
As the last commenced to read from the service-
book, murmurs of disapprobation became audible.
A female who sat near the communion table rose
fix)m her stool, which she threw violently against
the pulpit. General confrision ensued, and the
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING, 171
bishops, unable to restore order, left the church.
The country was aroused, and petitions against the
service-book were forwarded to the king from every
town and hamlet. Then followed the Tables or Com-
mittees, which met at Edinburgh. On the 1st of
March 1637-8, the National Covenant was renewed in
the Greyfriars Church. Fearing to meet at Edin-
burgh, the Privy Council assembled at Stirling, and
issued proclamations, which were forthwith met by
public rejoinders and protests.
The king determined on revenge, but ere he could
assemble an army, the Covenanters were so powerfiil
that it became expedient to treat with them. In May
1638 the Marquis of Hamilton came to Scotland as a
royal commissioner. No ordinary concessions would
now satisfy a people goaded by oppression. They
demanded that the Estates of Parliament and the
General Assembly of the Church should be allowed
to meet, and that meanwhile ecclesiastical innovations
should cease. The concessions were made. On the
22d September a royal proclamation recalled the ser-
vice-book, suspended the oppressive Court of High
Commission, convened a Parliament, and convoked an
Assembly. That Assembly — ^the most memorable in
the history of the Scottish Church — ^met at Glasgow
in November; it condemned the service-book and
deposed the bishops. Lord Stirling's psalm-book was
ignored ; the late attempt to introduce it had utterly
failed.
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172 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Lord Stirling experienced sevwe family aMction.
Sir Anthony Alexander, his second son, died at Lon-
don on the 17th September 1637, and his eldest son.
Lord Alexander, died at London of fever, on the 18th
May 1638 (Reg. of Letters). Informed that he had
sustained these sad bereavements, his friend William
Drummond condoled with him in the following
letter :
'' When the pitif al news came of so dear funerals, though I had
an mtention to have written to your Lordship, I restrained my-
self, both because your wound was flagrant, and that I had not
an argument of comfort which was not your own. Nothing is
now left me but to manifest that the sense of this loss could not
but perplex him grievously, who never made any difference
between your fortunes and his own. I hold myself co-partner of
all your griefs as I have been of your prosperities. I know your
fatherly affection. I know too your constancy, which, being
seasoned with piety, will not suffer you to repine at that which
is the determined will of Ood. Your erudition and experience
instruct you that such accidents should be taken in good part
and cheerfully, which are not incident to us alone, and which,
by our sighs, tears, and plaints, we may not evite and put far
from us. You must not attend till time mitigate your languor,
for this do the vulgar sort of men with Sola dies paUrit tarUum
lenire ddorem. A wise man should prevent and anticipate time,
overrun new-bom grief, which is an ungrateful guest, thrusting
out and ransacking the masters of the inn. I, who am conscious
of your patience and wisdom, am assured you have performed
all this already, upon which confidence I will leave off to trouble
you further, or lay a heavier burden and needless task upon
myself. W. Drummond."
(Drummond's Works, p. 145.)
Drunmiond celebrated Sir Anthony Alexander in
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 173
an elegiac poem. Respecting Lord Alexander, Prin-
cipal Robert Baillie, the celebrated Presbyterian
divine, thus communicated with his correspondent,
Mr William Spang, minister at Campvere :
" With the President * came word of my L. Alexander's death.
I have into itt a losse of a near coosin and familiar Mend. The
King did professe his losse of a servant of great hopes. Ye knowe
beside the galantries of his persone, he was both wise, learned,
and verie well spoken : The Cpuntrey makes not much doole for
him, for they took him for ane advancer of the episcopall causes
to his power. It feares me his death wUl imdo that ryesing
House ; their debts are great His Father is old and extretimely
hated of all the countrey for his alledged briberie, urgeing of the
Psalmes and the Books [Service-Books] for them [i.e,, on account
of the Psalms], overwhelming us with his Black money. His
Sonne [the son of Lord Alexander] is but sme infant ; his brother.
Sir Antonie and Bobert also are dead : Henrie will not be able
yet for his place :f and if he should what he ctm gaine must be
for himself, and not the Housa Many who intended his Father's
overthrow were withholden for respect to him. In a three or
four dayes feaver, beside all men's expectation^ he expired"
(Baillie's Letters, vol. i, pp. 76, 77).
Principal Baillie augured correctly. Lord Alex-
ander died insolvent, leaving his young widow, a
daughter of the Marquis of Douglas, altogether un-
provided for, also an infant son. He was spared
from contemplating the troubles which fell upon his
House, The Estates of Parliament, which met in
August 1639, enacted that patents of honour should
* Sir Bobert Spotswood, son of the Archbishop, and President of the College
of Justice,
t Lord Alexander held o£Sce as an Extraordinary Lord of Session.
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174 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRUNa
be granted to those only who drew rent^ in Scot-
land equal to 10,000 merks annually, that the value
of money should not be enhanced without their
express sanction, and that the copper coin issued
by the Earl of Stirling should be reduced to its true
value. These enactments were rejected by the king,
but the Privy Council proceeded, by the authority of
Parliament, to '' call down " Lord Stirling's coins by
open proclamation. An attempt made to arrest the
Act of the Estates was inefficacious, and Lord Stir-
ling's turners soon disappeared from the circulation
(Spalding's Memorials, i. 235).
A contemporary chronicler, Mr John Gordon,
pastor of Bothiemay, thus notices the proceedings :
"This year lyckwayes, Nbvembris second, the small copper
farthings wer cryed down to half worthe, but a little afterward
they praescrybed and went out of fashione qwyte. The kyng-
dome had been much abused by them, both because they wer
under the just weight of the copper money, as also, amongst
other monopolyes which a whyle befor wer current in England,
Sir William Alexander (once of Menstrye), then Earle of Sterlin,
and secretaire for Scottlande, a man extremly prodigall, had
purchased a licence for to coyne above the value of ane hun-
dereth thousands poXmds Scottish (some said three hundereth
thousande pounds worth), of thes small Tumors, for to be some
recTute to his creacked fortune, after his former monopoly of
selling knyght barronetts patents for New Scottland was growne
stale, and gave no mor pryce, and after the planting of his kyng-
dome in Alexandria had miscarryd. Nor was this aU ; for, in
lieu of his priveleidge, ther wer aboundance more carryd in
unto Scottland by merchants, who brought them from Macklyne,
and other places, wher that trade of counterfitting coyne is
drivne to the benefitt of none but thes impostors themselves.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 175
For some tjone no money was to be seen almost but Tumors,
which for ease of the receipt wer putt in many little baggs, and
this way compted in dollars. The merchants did hurt the
countrey much by this meanes, for some of the wealthyer sort
did buy them from Sir William Alexander's factors by weight,
in barrells, smd entysed the ruder softe of people to chaunge
them for silver coyne, giving to the poorer sorte some few
Tumors of quine, acording to the worth of the silver piece that
they exchaunged with them. It is a probleme which I can
hardly determine, whither the countrey wer worse satisfeed,
and complained mor, or sustained mor injurye, by coyning thes
Twmors, or by crying them downe ; for msuiy wer losers evrye
waye, and not a little of the silver coyne was transported at that
tyme by the merchantes over seas (for many yeares before they
had stollne all the gold coyne out of the countrey), and ther
exchainged to the best advantage, seing that the money at that
time was current at higher rates then it was in Scottlande.
This is that decrying of the money by the Comissioners autho-
ritye which the Covensmters complaine upon in ther parlia-
mentary dedaratione, Deeemlnis eighteenth" (Gordon's Scots
AflFairs, pp. 87, 88).
In a MS. entitled, " A Litle but true Rehearsal,
collected by a friend of Doctor Alexander at Aber-
deen," it is related that two sons of the Earl of
Stirling (doubtless Henry and John) accompanied
John Gordon, Lord Aboyne, second son of the
Marquis of Huntly, when in 1639, in the interest of
Charles I., he sailed into the roads at Aberdeen, with
three ships of war, to resist the upholders of the
Covenant (Stewart's Collections, Advocates Library,
34, 3, 12).
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CHAPTER VH
MEMOIB OF THE EARL OF STIRLING — ^HIS EMRARRAJSS-
IfENTS^ DEATH, AND FUNERAL — HIS CHARACTER.
Since his means of discharging his obligations had
virtually ceased, Lord Stirling's creditors became
clamorous. To an obligation for borrowed money,
granted on the 14th December 1636 by the earl and
his deceased sons, Sir Thomas Hope of Kerse re-
ceived a bond of corroboration on the 2d September
1638, subscribed by the earl's surviving sons and
others, as cautioners. This instrument Sir Thomas
recorded in the Books of Council and Session on the
28th January 1639-40. It proceeds thus :
" Be it kend till all men be thir present letteris, wb, Williame,
Erie of Stirliiig, Lord Alexander of Tulliebodie, forsameikill as
umq^ WUliame Lord Alexander^ our eldest laufull sone, as
principal!, & umq^ Sir Antonie Alexander, our sone, & Mr
James Gordoun, Eeepar of the Signet^ as cautionaiis for him,
be thair band and obligatioun, subscrynit with thair handis, of
the dait the foortene day of December, Jmirjc. 36 yeirs, grantit
thame to be addetit and awand to Sir Thomas Hope of Eerss,
knicht, all and haill, &c., as the said band and obligatioon, of the
dait foirsaid, in itselff at mair lenth beiris : And now seing it
hes pleisit Qod to call the said umq^ Williame Lord Alexander,
our sone, out of this mortall lyffe, and that we ar willing to
secure the said Sir Thomas, and his foirsaidis, for payment of
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 177
the foirsaidis sowmes : Thairfoir witt ye ws, the said Williame,
Erie of Stirling, as principally and with ws, Johne Alexsmder of
Graitmure, Charles Alexfiuider, our sones, &c., as cautionaris, souer-
ties, and full dettouris for ws, but preiudice of the foirsaid obliga-
tioun, maid to the said Sir Thomas, and his foirsaidis, of the foir-
said principall sowme, annuel rentis, and expenses yairof, hot in
farder corroboratioun of the samyn, accmwulando jv/ra jv/riJms^
to be bund and oblist, lykeas we, be the tennour heirof, bindis
and obliss ws, conjunctlie and seueralie, our airis and executouris,
to content and pay to the said Sir Thomas Hope, and his foir-
saidis, the foirsaid principaU sowme, &c.
" (Sic subscribitur) Johne Alexander
Charles Alexander.
Mr J. GoBDOUN.
Andro Alexander
Henris Alexander"
To this bond, one of the cautioners was Mr James
Gordon, Deputy Keeper of the Signet On the 29th
January, being the day succeeding that on which Sir
Thomas Hope registered his bond, Gordon and Alex-
ander Kynneir of Forreit, for their own interest, and
on behalf of his lordship's other creditors, procured
from the earl the following assignation :
" Be it kend till all men be thir present letteris, ws, William,
Erie of Stirling, Viscount of Cannada, Lord Alexander of Tulli-
bodie and Menstrie, Secretar to his Ma^® for the kingdome of
Scotland. Forsameikle as we haive patent grantit to ws be his
Ma*'* of Nova Scotia in America, and for disponing and resyne-
ing of certane proportions of land thereof, and procuring to sindrie
personis the infeftmentis of the samyne fra his Ma*^, with the
honour and dignitie of Knychtis Barronettis, haive been in vse to
gett &a everie ane of the receavers yairof the sowme of
money of this realme, or yairby ; and siclyk, forsameikle as we
haive obtainit from his majistie his hienis' letters of gyft to ws,
M
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178 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
our airis and assignayes, the gyft of the marriage of Francis^ now
Erie of Buckcleugh, sone and aire to tunq^ Walter, Earle of Bal-
cleuch, his father, as vackand in his Majistie's hands, in maimer
mentionit in the gyft grantit to ws thareupon, with the haill
profites and comodities of the said marriage. And also forsa-
meikle as we have power and commissioune grantit to ws be his
Majistie to £ulmit^ receave, nominat, and creat all Sheriff clerkis,
Stewart clerkis, and baillie clerkis within the kingdome of Scot-
land, as the samyne sail happin to fall and vaik in his Majistie's
handisy in manner mentionit in the letters of gift grantit to ws
by his Majistie thairupon. And in lyk manner, forsameikle as
thair is ane contract and appoyntment maid betwixt on
the ane part^ and we, the said William, Erie of Stirling, on the
uther part, of the dait Be the qlk contract^ we, for the
causes therein stated, have bund smd obleight ws to infefb and
sease the said for themselfis, and to the behove of
the remanent persounes above namit, for thair releyff of their
cautionry conteinat in the inventar mentionat in the said con-
tract^ and pajonent of yair debtis thairin stated, in all and
sundrie the landis and baronie of TuUibodie, Menstrie, and Tulli-
coultrie, and uthers particularUe and generallie mentionat and
sett downe in the said contract And also, be the said contract,
the said assigneis transferrit and disponit to and in favor of the
said for themselfis, and to the behuiff of the remanent
personnis contracters above namit, the gift grantit to us of the said
feu-fermes, maills, and dewties of the saidis lands and barony of
Tillicultrie, and of the landis of Westertoun of Tillicultrie, to-
gidder with the fees and casualities of his Majestie's signet
belonging to ws, as lus Majestie's Secretar of the said kingdome
of Scotland. And that in forme and manor, and under the pro-
visiones, restrictiones, and conditiones mentionat in the said
contract Whereas in the said contract it is speciallie provydit
and declairit that the landis, baronies, and utheris thairin speci-
feit, sail be recoverable be us &a the said be releiving
of thame and remanent cautionaris thairin nominat of thair halQ
cautionries, conteinat in ye inventar thairin specifeit^ and be
payment making to our creditouris nominat in ye said inventar
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 179
of thair debtis thaiim exprest auchtand be ws to thame, with
the haill annuall rentes thereof that sail happin to be dew for
the same. All which being done, it is provydit be the said con-
tract^ that the saidis sallbe haldin to renunce^ resigne, and
overgive the samjne contract and infeftments appoyntit to follow
hereupon in favor of our airs and assignayes, the said contract^
conteining the said provissione of reversioune and conditioune
foirsaid, at mair length bears. And seeing that we (by and
attour the burdingis and debtis conteinit in ye said inventar)
stand trewlie adebtit and restand awand to Mr Alexander
K3mneir of Forrett, and Mr James Gordoun, keeper of His
Majistie's signet^ divers great soumes of money, als weill anent the
copper coyne, conform to the contract had betwixt ws, umquhill
William, Lord Alexander, our sone, and thame, uther great
soumes of money tulebted be ws to them for themselfis, smd
for qlk they, at our earnest request and desyre, are become
bund and obleight as cautioneris and sourities for ws for pay-
ment to our creditouris, nominat in the inventar underwrittin,
off the said soumes of money therein specifiet ; and haive also
advancit and payit to ws sindrie sowmes of money mentionat
in the saidis inventaris afbermentionat, conforme to the bandis
and securities thairin specifiet, quhillds haill cautionries and
debtis are all particularlie mentionat and sett doune in the
inventar thairof, subscryvit be ws of the daitt of thir presentis, and
quhilk inventar hes relatioune to this present assignatioun and
dispositioun. And we, being most willing and carefall (as reas-
sone and equitie wald) that the foimamitpersounis, our caution-
eries for the debti3 conteinit in the said inventar, be thankfullie
releiffit of thair cautionery, and the debtis thairin shown, payit
to our creditors thairin nominat, Thairfore, witt ye ws to have
maid, constitut, and ordanit, lykeas we be the tennor hereof, mak,
constitut, and ordaine the said Mr Alexander Kynneir, and Mr
James Gordoun, equallie and proportionallie amongst
thame, thair airis, and assignayes, our very lawfull, undouttit^
and irrevocabill procuratouris, cessioners, and assignayes, dona-
touris, and procuratouris, in rem stiam cum dispositiane libera,
In and to the haill compositiones and soumes of money, to be
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180 MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OP STIRLING.
procured and receaved for the proportdones of land in Nova
Scotia^ and dignitie of Knight barronet, &a quhatsomever per-
soune or persounes, eyther in Scotland or Engltmd, and for
admitting and receaving of qahatsumever persoune or personnes,
to quhatsumeyer sheriff derkschip, steward derkschip, or baUlie
derkschip, within the said kingdome of Scotland. And sidyke,
in and to the said gift grantit to ws of the marriage of the said
Francis, Earl of Buckdench, and in and to the haill benefit^
profit, and commoditie that may be receavit be yertew thairof
And also, in and to the provisioun and conditioun of reversioune,
specifiet and conteinet in the contract above mentionat, whereby
the said landis and baronnies of Tullibodie, Menstrie, and Tilli-
cultrie, 8uid utheris thairin exprest, are appoynted to be redimable
to ws in maner thairin containit; and in and to the haill claims
and conditions of the said contract conceaved in our f&vor
(excepting and reservand as is exceptit and reservit in the
samyne contract), and in and to all right and benefit competent^
or that may be competent, to us thairby. Lykeas we have sur-
rogatt, and be thir presentis surrogattis the foimamit personnes
and their foresaiddis, in our full right, titill, and place of the
sayme for ever, with power to thame to ask, creave, receave,
intromitt with, and uptak the haill compositiones and soumes of
money, to be receaved for procuring of the said dignitie of
Knight Barronett &a quhatsumever persone or persounis either in
Scotland or England ; and for admitting and receaving of quhat-
sumever Sheriff derkschips, Stewart derkschips, or baillie derk-
schips, within the said kingdome of Scotland, togidder with the
haill proffdttis and commodities of the said Erie of Buckdeuch
his marriage foresaid, and to serve the benefeit of the reversione
and utheris conditiones contenit in the said contract conceaved
in our favouiis (excepting alwayis as is thairin exceptit), corn-
pone, transact^ and aggrie thairanent^ and if neid beis, to call
and persew thairfoir as accordis of the law, and to doe all uther
thingis requirit in premissis quhilk we myght have done our-
sdffis befolr the making heirof Lykewise, we bind and obleige
ws, our airis and successouris, to resyne certaine portiounes of
the said landis in Nova Scotia ; And to procure from his Majestic
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 181
signet and infeftment thairof, with the said honour and dignitie
of Knights Barronets in the wonted manner, to and in favor of
all such persounes as the saidis Mr Alexander Einneir and Mr
James Grordoun, or maist part of them, sail nominat and
appoynt; And also to admitt, receave, nominat, and appoynt,
and present sic qualified personnes as salbe nominat be thame
or maist part of thame, to all shireflf clerkschips, Stewart clerk-
schips, or baillie clerkschips, within the said kingdome of Scot-
land, as the samen sail happen to vedk, and to cans the saidis Mr
Alexander Kynneir and Mr James Gordoun, and thair
foirsaidis, to be thankfullie answered and payit of the soumes of
money and compositions, to be receaved for the said dignitie of
knight barronett, and shireflf clerkschips, Stewart clerkschips, and
baillie clerkschips. And farder, we have maid, constitut, and
ordainit, and be the tennor heirof mak, constitut, and ordane the
saidis Mr Alexander Kynneir and Mr James (Gordoun,
equallie smd proportionallie amongis thaime, thair airis and
assignayes, our very lawfull, undouttit, and irrevocabill cessioners
and assignayes, in and to the debtis and soumes of money re-
spective underwrittin, adebtit to ws in maner, and for the causes
eftermentionat, viz., in fimd to ane band maid to ws be umq* Sir
Richard Murray of Cockpool, designed thairin Mr Eichard Murray,
datit first Februar 1626 yeiris conteining thrie thousand
merkis scots principall, and 200 lib. expences. To ane uther
band maid to ws be Sir David Home of Wedderbume, dated the
tent of May 1627 yeires, conteining three thousand merkis Scots
principall, 300 merkis expences, with the ordinar annuelrent. To
ane uther band maid to ws be Eobert Bruce, fear of Clakmannan,
datit 26 October 1625, conteining three thousand merks Scotts
principall, iiic. lib. expences. To ane uther band maid to ws be
Alexander Erskene of Dun, datit 4 Apryll 1631, conteining thrie
thousand merks Scots principall, iiia merks expences, with the
ordinar annuelrent To ane uther band maid to ws be Bonald,
Erie of Ancrum, and Sir Eobert Gordounne, Barronet, datit last
Jiu4} 1625 yeiris, conteining thrie thousand merks Scots princi-
pall, iiic. lib. expences, with the ordinar annuelrent To ane
other band maid to ws be umq^ Robert, Lord ELirkcudbryt,
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182 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
thairin designit Sir Robert M^Clelane, datit the twenty of May
1626 yeiris, conteining thrie thousand merkis principaU, iiic. lib.
expences. To ane uther band maid to us be umq^ William,
Earl of Lothiane, datit the auchteen Apryl 1627, conteining twa
thousand merkis principally twa hundredth merkis penalty, and
ane hundredth pundis of with the ordinar annuelrent.
To ane uther band maid to us by Sir Hew Wallace of Craigie,
datit the twenty sixt day of November 1629 yeiris, r^[istrat
19th day of December 1631 yeiris, containing three thousand
merkis principall, thrie hundred merkis of expences, with the
ordinary aimuelrent. To one iither band to us be the Erie of
Linlithgow, datit ninth of November 1632 yeiris, whereby he is
obleigit to pay to ws the third pairt of Twa Thousand pundis
sterling for the cause thairin showed, and in and to the articles
of aggrement past betwixt ws, therein designit Sir William
Alexander of Meustrie, Knight, and the barons and gentle-
men of Largis, daitit 10 of August 1630 yeiris, registrat in the
Books of Sessioun, the 10 of July 1634 yeiris. And in and to
the soume of twelff thousand pundis Scots thairin conteinit, qlk
Sir Thomas Boyd of Bonschaw, John Boill of Kelbume, John
Birsbeane of Bischoptoune, and Eobert Boyd of Ck)urgill, for
thameselfis, and in name of the rest of the gentlemen, noblemen,
and barrones, that hes rycht to the comontie of Largis, war, be
the said articles, content to pay to ws at Mertimes, efter the dait
foirsaid of the said articles. In and to the Inhibitioun reaisit
and execut upon the said articles agains the said Sir Thomas
and Bobert Boyds, with the executiones and indersertiones
thairof, and in and to all utheris letteris and executoriallis raisit
and execut thairupon, with all that hes foUowit, or may follow,
upon the said articles. And in and to the soume of sevin
thousand nyne hundreth fourtie sax pundis threttene & 4A. Scotts,
of bygane restis of ane zeirlie pensioun of iic. lib. sterling, dew
to us forth of the Exchequir of Scotland, the tyme of the last
compt filed in Exchequir, quhilk was preceiding the terme of
Mertimes 1638 yeiris ; and in and to the said yeirlie pensioune
of Twa hundredth pundis sterling, restand awsmd of the said
terme of Mertimes 1638 yeires, Witsunday and Mertimes 1639
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 183
yeires, And of the said terme of Witsnnday nex to cum 1640
yeires^ extending the said haill tennes in Scotts money to the
soume of And in and to the soume of ellevin thousand,
four hundredth, four score, eleven pundis, one shilling, six pennies,
of bygaine maillis and dewties of our being and estait restand
awand be our tennentia of the croptis and yeiris of God 1635, 1636,
and 1637 yeiris, conforme to ane particular roll or note beirand
every persoune and debtouris name with the quantitie of his
rent And in and to the haill furnishing and plenishing, to witt,
hingings, beddis, with thair courteins, and haill fumitouris
belonging thairto, tabillis, buirdis, less or mair, chyris, stooUis,
naprie, broddis, chyneyes, with thair pertinentis, and haill re-
manent famitour presentlie standing, and within that our great
ludgeing within the burgh of Stirling, presentlie mentionat in
ane inventar book lysmd within the said ludgeing. And in and
to ane uther band maid to ws be Hew Wallace of Craigie, con-
teining the soume of thrie thousand merkis principall, and thrie
hundreth pimdis of expences, dated the twentie of May 1626
yeins. And in smd to all and sindrie uther debtis, spumes
of money, annuelrents, and debtis, and utheris quhatsumever,
adebtit and restand awand to ws be quhatsumever maner of way.
And in and to the contractis, bandis, gifts, pensdouns, and uthers
writtis, rychts, 8uid securities maid to ws thairanent, and trans-
ferns and dispons our haill rycht thairof to, and in favour of,
the said Mr Alexander Kynneir and Mr James Gordoun and
thair foirsaidis, surrogating thame in our full lycht and place of
the samyne, with power to thame to ask, crave, receaye, intromit
with, and uptak the debtis, soumes of money, annuelrentis, and
others, particularlie and generallie above specifiet. And acquit-
tances and discharges upon the ressait thairof to mak, subscryve,
and delyver, quhilk salbe sufficient, compone, transact, and
aggrie thereanent, and, if neid bees, to call and persew thairfor,
as accordis of the law, and to do all other things necessar and
requisit concerning the premissis, quhilk we micht haive done
ourself befoir the making heirof. Whilk assignatioim and dis-
positioun abovewritten, we bind and obleis us, our aires, execu-
touris, and successouris, to warrant to the foimandt persons, and
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184 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
ihair foirsaidis, to be gad and sufficient in itselff at all handis,
as law will ; Provyding always, lykas it is heirby speciallie pro-
yydit, that how soon it sail happin the said Mr Alexander
Kynneir, and Mr James Gordoun, to be fullie releivit of thair
haill cautionrieSy contenit in the said inventaris, and of aU cost,
skaith, damage, expences, and interest, quhilk they or any of
thame sail happen to incur thairthrow, and be thankfullie and
compleitiie payit of tiiair debtis and soumes of money specifeit
in the said inyentaris, and adebtit be ws to thame, with the
halQ annuelrentis thairof that sail happin to be dew for the
samen, that then, and in that cais, and immediatelie thairefter,
thir presents sail be null, and of nane ayaill, force, strenth, nor
effect, &a thjnifarth for ever, and the foimamit persons sail be
halden and obleist to repone ws in our awin rycht and place of
premissis efter they be fullie releivit and payit in manor foir-
said. It is faider provydit that the acceptatioun of thir presentis
sail in na wayes be prejudiciall to the accepters to use aU uther
executioun competent to thame of the law for thair releif of
thair said cautionries, contenit in the said inventaris, and for
payment of thair debtis thairin specifiet as accordis. It is also
heirby provydit, that the assignatioun foirsaid to the composi-
tions and soumes of money foirsaid, to be receaved for the pro-
portions of land in Nova Scotia^ and dignitie of Knyt Baronet,
salbe no lett nor impediment to ws to dispone and resigne the
said patent, ather to his Majistie or to any uther, the benefeit
and soumes of money to be gottin thairfoir being alwayes
applyed to the payment of the debtis, for the releiff of those
quha ar ingaged as cautionaris for ws in the former contract
heir specifeit, and the superplus thairof, and of all uther
benefit that may aryse to thame, ather be the said assigna-
tioun, or the first contract (the cautionaris of the first con-
tract being alwayes first releived), to be uplift by thame for
thair releiff; And finaUie, we faithfullie bind and obleis ws
and our foirsaidis to restorat, renew, extend, and ampliefie this
present assignatioun and dispositioun be the advyse of men of
judgement, keipand the substance thairof abovewrittin, and to
mak and grant all secuiitie necesscur to the foimamit persons,
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 185
and to ilk ane of thame, quhensoever they sail Tequyre ws for
that eflTect; and, for the mair securitie, we are content, and con-
sent that thir presentis be insert and registrat in ye bookes of
counsall and sessioune, to have the strength of ane decreit of ye
lordis thairo^ that letteris of homing on sax dayes and ntheris
necessar in form as efifeiiis^ may pas heiruponn, and constitutts
Mr William Forbes, advocat, our procnratonr. In witnes quhairof
we have subscryvit thir presentis with our hand (writtin be
Patrik Grordoun, servitour to Mr James Gordoim, Keipar of his
Majistie's signet), at Convent Gairdine, the twentie-nynt day
of January 1640 yeiris, befoir thir witnesses — ^Mr Thomas
Hammiltoun of Robertoun; Mr Walter Neische, shireflT-clerk of
Eadingtoune [Haddington] ; and John Squyre, servitour to ws,
the said Erie of Stirling.
" (Sic subscribitur), W. Sterline.
^ Mr Thomas Hammiltoun, witnes to Sterlings subscriptioun.
Mr Walter Neische, witnes thairto. Jo. Squyre, witnes thereto "
(K^. Mag. Sig., Paper Eegister, No. 479).
From the Lords of Council and Session, Gordon
and Kynneir received authority to record this
assignation in the usual register. This application
was made and granted on the 15th of February;
three days previously. Lord Stirling had ceased to
live. He died at his residence, Covent Garden, on the
12th February 1639-40 (Crawford's Peerage, p. 463).
Notwithstanding his embarrassments, he was awarded
a funeral befitting his rank. The body was embalmed,
and being placed in a leaden coflSn, was conveyed by
sea to Stirling; it was on the 12th April deposited in
the family vault (Balfour's Annals, ii., p. 427). There
it remained for a century, undisturbed (" A Genea-
logist " in the London Chronicle^ 17th October 1776).
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186 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
On attaining the dignity of Viscount, Lord Stirling
proceeded to secure an appropriate place of sepulture.
The most conspicuous funereal enclosure at Stirling
was an adjunct on the south side of the High Church,
known as Bowie's aisle. Who built or originally
owned it does not appear ; it was, on the 26th Feb-
ruary 1618, resigned by Thomas Craigengelt of that
ilk to the governors of the burgh hospital By the
master of the hospital it was in 1631 granted to
Viscount Stirling, the grant being confirmed by the
kirk session on the 4th October 1631, and afterwards
on the 4th September 1632 (Stirling Kirk Session
Eecords). Under the superintendence of Sir An-
thony Alexander, the aisle was partially rebuilt, the
upper portion being adapted as a family seat or
gallery in the adjacent church, and the lower portion
converted into a spacious vault. Into this vault Lord
Stirling transferred from a less imposing sepulchre,
the remains of Sir William and Lady Erskine, his
wife's parents, while on a mural tablet he thus cele-
brated their virtues :
'' Hie jacet in spe resurrectionis GuUelmus iBreskinus equestris
ordinis, cum Joanna conjuge^ illnstri et commimi .^Ereskinorom
familia orta» singulari virtute femina, unica filia snperstite, qUffi
postea GuUelmo Alexandro, Equiti egregio, Jacobo regi ab suppli-
cibus libellis, Garolo regi ab Epistolis, proventusque r^ni
anonis, nnpsit. Earn filiam amor ejus numerosa sobole auxit, et
hoc montunentum parentibus illustribus posuit" *
* The monumental slab has been presenred. The Latin inscription may be thus
translated : *' Here lies, in hope of the resorrection, William Erskine, Knight,
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 187
In the vault were deposited the embabnod remains
of Sir Anthony Alexander and Lord Alexander.
Soon after the earl's death the aisle and the earFs
mansion at Stirling were assigned to '' the masters
of the Laigh hospital," by whom they were conveyed
by instrument of sale to Archibald, eighth Earl of
Argyle. While in the possession of the Argyle family,
the aisle was allowed to fall into decay. Exposed to
public sale on the 20th December 1764, at the instance
of John, fourth Duke of Argyle, it was purchased by
James Campbell, merchant in Stirling, and James
Wright of Loss (Stirling Burgh Register).
To the modem history of Lord Stirling's burial*
place attaches a curious interest By Mr Wright of
Loss, who became sole owner of Lord Stirling's
mansion and tomb, the latter was granted to Mr James
Wright, writer at Stirling, his family solicitor. When
in the course of carrying out certain alterations on
the fabric of the High Church, early in the present
century, the aisle was removed, Mr James Wright
transferred Sir William Erskine's monumental tablet
to a more eligible enclosure adjoining the High
Church, of which he consequently took possession
on the plea that it was Lord Stirling's actual burial-
place. At the time none were disposed to dispute
with his wife Joanna, a woman of great worth and illastrioas birth* spmng from
the main line of the Erskines, leaving behind them an only daughter, who was
afterwards married to William Alexander, a distingnished knight» Master of
Requests to King James, Secretary and Commifisioner of Exchequer to Charles.
Hii lore has blessed that daughter with a numerous ofEspring^ and has reared this
monument to her illustrions parents." *
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188 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
the claim, but when in 1856 the burgh authorities
were proceeding to remove certain adjuncts which
disfigured the High Church, the lawyer's eldest
daughter, an aged widow, resisted interference;
certain legal proceedings supervened, when to avert
costly litigation, the widow was by the burgh autho-
rities allowed to retain the place of sepulture, so
curiously acquired. In gratitude for service, the
widow bequeathed to her solicitor a landed estate
of the value of £10,000.
Though at the time of his death Lord Stirling's
unpopularity was all but universal, one old friend
remained firm. This was William Drummond of
Hawthomden. Among his MSS. in the Advocates
Library is an entry : *' W. D. his cypress over the
grave of S. W. A.," and the following jotting under
the title of " Alphander : "
''His deeds in Caledonia, Arcadia^ Alexandria; his poesies,
adding to them his ' Jonathan ; ' his gravity and wit in counsel ;
his friendship, love, familiarity with his friends; his alliance
with the greatest; his humanity towards all; his breeding at
Leyden; his natural judgment above learning. I expected an
epitaph of thee, and now I must write one fen* thee, on thee :
receive, accept of my brass for thy gold."
Drummond's intended epitaph on his departed
friend remained unwritten. A poetical antagonist
was less inactive. Among the MSS. of Sir James
Balfour in the Advocates Library appears a bitter
pasquinade, directed against the earl and his sons.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 189
Both in the character of the details and the style of
. verse. Sir James Balfour's own manner may be
• certainly traced. The lines follow :
'* Vpone ye twelfe day of Appryle,
In Stirling kirke and Bowies yle,
The Nova Scotia Governomis,
The Tinkeris of ye New Tnrnoors,
Wes castin in a hole by night,
For evill doers hattes ye light.
Earles of a housse in Strevelinge* tonne,
Whilk I heir tell will be pnlled doone ;
For whay ther master, ye Earle Argyle,
Fra wham thesse mooneshyne Lordes did wyle
Ther feus of lait — ^they were his vassalls,
Tho' now become grate Dinnie yasseUs — f
WiU poll it downe, as I suppose,
Becans it standes jnste in his nosse.
The reassone no man can denay it,
Whay that ther borlall was so quiet ;
Becaus ther Landes beyond ye lyne
Layes so fax off, as I devyne,
Ther subjects in ye winter wither,
Could not conveniently come hither.
Yet Victrie, quhen ye spring begins,
He's vow'd to moume in Beaver skins,^
' Becaus his pattron, as ye know.
Became Knight Beaver longe agoe.
Some Baronetts hes vowed to make
Ther Orange Ribands to tume blaike.
* The old mode of spelling Stirling.
t Derived from duine, "a man " and Thais, "noble," the term Dunivassel was
originally applied to persons of noble rank. Lindsay of Pitscottie writes (edit.
1814, p. 857) : " The king passed to ye Illes, and caused many of the great
Dunny VaasiUa to show their holdings, and fand mony of thame in non-entrie,
and therefore took thame to his awin crown." In Colville's "Mock Poem " (i. 57)
there is this verse :
" Some, sir, of our Dtmiwessels
Stood out, like E^lintoune and Cassils ;
Ajid others, striving to sit still,
Were forced to go against their wilL"
t In reference to his holding the lieutenancy of New Scotland, Lord Stirling
took a beaver as his crest A bear sejant, proper, was the original crest of the
House of Macalexander.
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190 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OP STIRLING.
Both Tnllieallaii and Dmiipeace
And Thornton's * wold qhyte their place.
To have their moneyee back againe,
Wich they on him bestowed in yaine,
With many a poor gentleman more,
Whose meins this Earle did devore.
Yet I am glad for M' Harrey,t
Who dmnken Yanlor's lasse did marey ;
Who, to redeime his father's land.
Will give ten thousand pounds in hand.
I think he'll scome to take ye name
Of M' of worke for very shame ;
Or to be Agent to the Borrowes,
To quhom he wrought a thousand sorrowes.
Ane Earle, a Viscount, and a Lord,
With such poore stylles will not accord.
Yet to conclude, 'twiU make a yerse
Ypon My Lord hes father's hearse.
** Epitaph.
" Heir layes a fiirmer and a miliar,
A poet and a Psalme booke spiller,
A purchasser by hooke and crooke,
A forger of ye service booke,
A copper smith who did much euill,
A friend to Bischopes and ye Devil,
A vaine, ambitious, flattring thing,
Late Secretary for a king ;
Four Tragedies in verse he penn'd.
At last he made a Tragicke end.
The Beggars that could mak no verse
Strewed on ther Tourners on his herse."
Lord Stirling was succeeded in the earldom by his
infant grandson, William Alexander, only son of the
* The three baronets referred to are Sir John Blackader of Tulliallan, Sir David
livingstoun of Dunipaoe, and Sir Alexander Strachan of Thornton. These had
probably accepted baronetcies in the hope of profiting by the territories in New
Scotland, conferred on them in their patents. Sir Alexander Strachan became
deeply embarrassed, and his son, the second baronet, died penniless.
t Henry Alexander, Lord Stirling's third son, subsequently third earl, married
Mary, daughter and co-heiress of Sir Peter Vanlore, Bart of Tylehurst, Berk-
ahire. In 1687 he succeeded his brother, Sir Anthony Alexander, as Master of
Works in Scotluid. He also held the post of Agent for the Scottish Buighs.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 191
deceased Viscount Alexander. He died in May 1640,
when Henry, third son of the first Lord Stirling, be-
came earl. By his father's creditors, he was, in a
process of appraising, charged to enter heir to his
father's estate, but he declined service. His father's
debts amounted to £32,680 sterling.
At a court of appraising, held in the Tolbooth of
Edinburgh on the 27th May 1641, lands belonging to
the late Earl of Stirling, described as '' the lands of
Saltcoites Grahame, Stirlingshire, the lands of Tulli-
body, with the lands of Banchrie," Clackmannanshire,
and the lands of Gogar, Perthshire, were appraised to
iSir Thomas Hope of Kerse, and his heirs, in satisfac-
tion of 12,200 merks. These lands are described as
having been appraised from "Henry, now Earl of
Stirling ; John and Charles Alexander, his brothers ;
Andrew Alexander, and Master James Gordoun"
(Reg. Mag. Sig., lib. iv.. No. 235, fol. 263, Paper
Register).
Owing to the lands of Tullibody being secured to
Viscountess Alexander in liferent, the appraising of
Sir Thomas Hope proved ineffectual ; and accordingly,
on the 15th September 1641, the entire estate of the
insolvent earl was, by royal charter, conveyed for
behoof of his creditors to Sir James M'Gill, one of
the Senators of the College of Justice. In this
charter the estate is described as embracing ''the
lands and barony of TuUiebody, in the Sheriffdom of
Clackmannan; the lands of Gogar and Grorgus, in
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192 MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OP STIRLING.
the Sheriffdom of Perth; the twelve-merk lands of
Grairtmore, in the Stewartry of Menteith ; the lands
of Cambusbarronie, called the Kerss, in the Sheriff-
dom of Stirling; the lands of Grartaverton-Lindsay,
in the Stewartry of Menteith; and the lands and
baronry of Menstrie; and the lands and barony of
Tnlliecultrie, in the Sheriffdom of Clackmannan"
(Reg. Mag. Sig., lib. iv.. No. 234, foL 260b).
On the 16th September, the day following the date
of the preceding charter, a memorial was presented
to the Estates of Parliament by William Home of
Ayton; Sir James Baillie of Lochend, Baronet;
Dame Magdalen Cam^e, Lady Lochend ; and Sir
Patrick Hamilton of Preston, praying " that as Harrie,
now Erll of Stirling, and his sister, resided in Eng-
land, authority might be given to the Sheriff of Clack-
mannan to proceed in the actions against the estate
as if they were resident in Scotland." This memorial
was resisted; for on the 24th September, the king
being present, a '' remonstrance was presented to the
Estates by the creditors of the deceased earl and Lord
Alexander, craving that inferior judges might be dis-
charged from proceeding in any actiones before them,
at the instance of any of the creditors against the
aires and executors of the said Earl of Stirling and
Lord Alexander '' (Acta ParL Scot.).
By the Estates the opposing petitioners were re-
ferred to a committee; and we next learn that, on
the 27th June 1642, a charter of the earl's lands was
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MEMORIALS OP THE EARL OP STIRLING. 193
granted to Charles Alexander, his fifth son, empower-
ing him to obtain infeftment in the same for behoof
of the creditors (Reg. Mag. Sig., lib. Ivii., 108).
As an administrator, Charles Alexander proved
ineflScient, and accordingly, on the 25th February
1644-5, the creditors complained of him to the Estates.
The consequent proceedings are subjoined :
" Anent the supplicatione givine in to the Estates of Parlia-
ment now convened in the second sessione of the first trienniall
parliament, be virtue of the last act of the last ParliamcDt,
haldine by his Majestie and the Estates in Anno 1641. OfiP the
qnhilk supplicatione the tenor foUowes : My Lords and otheris,
the Estates of Parliament, Unto your Lordships humblie meanes
and showes. We, your servitors. Dame Margaret Douglas, Ladie
Alexander, for my selfe, and in name and behalfe of Katherine,
Jeane, and Margaret Alexander, Doughters to umq^ William,
Lord Alexander; Sir James Baillie of Lochend, ky*; and my
tutores, for thair selves ; Maister Alexander Kynneir of Forret ;
Mr Robert Bruce, Advocat ; James Rae, merchand in Edinburgh ;
Maister Eichard Maitland, attending the Erie of Lauderdaill ;
Mr Andrew Oiswall, Advocat; Sir George Morristoun, kny*;
Harie Dow of Amehaw; Margaret and Elspeth Buchanans, baimis
to umq^ William Buchanane in ; James Wood, son to
lunq^ Patrike Woode, merchant in Edinbuigh ; Captain Robert
Hammiltoun in Prestoun; James Nairn, merchant in Edin-
burgh; John Patersone, Kirk Thesaurer of the Canongait; Mr
John Paip, younger. Advocate; Mr Robert Peine, writter in
Edinburgh; Mr James Fergusson, writter to his Majestie's
signet; William Tofts, indweller in the Abbay of Halirudhous ;
Sir WiUiame Gray of Pittindrum, kny* ; Johne Rynd, merchant
burges of Edinburgh; Jauet Alexander, and Walter Auchin-
mowtie, hir spous, for his intres ; Bessie and Robert Alexander,
baimis to umq^ Robert Alexander in Leith ; Robert and Marione
Whytes, baimis to umq^ Wuhyte in Clackmannane ;
William Thomsoune, Henrie Brown,and Alexander Bell, skipperes
N
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194 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
in Leith; Dame Cathei'ine Weir, and Sir Patrike Murray, Mr
spous ; Mr Peter Hay of Nachtoun ; Mr Kobert Murray, proveist
of Methven; George Murray in Dysert; Williame Broun in
Seatoun ; Jolin Dryesdaill in Tullicoultrie ; Janet Alexander and
James Gib, hir spous, their; Thomas Bume, ther; William
Alexander at the mylne theirof ; Christian Harper, their; John
Archibald in TuUibodie; Archibald Stirling, indueUer in Stir-
ling ; David Nairn, bulges there ; Geilles Nairn and David Miller,
hir spous, burges there ; James Henrison, burges there ; David
Mellir, younger, ther; John Short, burges there; Janet Wate-
sone, thair ; John Mathesoun, thair ; Eobert Brown, burges thair;
Andrew Baird, younger, burges thair; Walter Graham in Gart-
morie ; Walter Graham in Balmesay ; William, Erie of Mortoun ;
John, Earl of Traquair; Sir William Murray of Duneme, ky*;
Dame Anna Murray, his sister ; Home of Ayetoim ; Eo-
bert Keyth, writter to the signet ; Thomas Leuchope, burges of
Stirling; Mr James Gordoun, writter in Edinburgh; and the
tutores and [curatores] of sae maney of them as are minores
for their entres creditores to umq^ Williame, Erie
of Stirling, and umq^ William, Lord Alexander, his sone. That,
quhairas there being an great nomber of creditoures, to whom
the saides umq^ erle and lord were debtoures in great soumes
of money; and their estates, movable and unmoveable, not
being able to satisfie us fuUie our haiU Debtes ; And that ane
great pairt of us, the creditoures, wer willing to take such
satisftictione as their saides estates being justlie valued might
give us, and that the pryce of the said estate might be distri-
bute amonges us, the saides creditoures, equallie and propor-
tionallie effeirant to the rate of our debtis, and wer willing to
give doime a superplus, a few only of the saides creditores
excepted, speciaUie be minors be sample of their tutores and
curatoris that would not consent thairto. Quhairupoun, and
upoun other narratives made upoun the inconveniences that
might befall to us and the said umq^ Erie and Lord their estates,
be our contending and pleying thairanent again utheirs and other-
wayes, there wes an action and summondes raised and intented,
at the instance of Charles Alexander, ane of the laufPull creditors
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 195
of the saids iimq^ Erie of Stirling, his father, and William, Lord
Alexander, his brother, aganes us, jthe haill remanent of the credi-
tonres befoir the lordis of counsell and sessione, to the effect under-
written : Quhairin there was decreet givine be them upoxin the
twentie-fyfte day of Februarij 1643 yeirs; Decemeing ws, the
saids creditoures to- dispose our haill rightes and securities, now
inherent in our persones, to and in favour of the said Charles
Alexander, ane of the saides creditoures, and who, as creditor,
standes heritablie infeft in their estait, and wes elected and
instructed be ws, the said creditores, and authorized be y' Lord-
ships to the effect he might compryse or adjudge the haiU
estaitte, moveable, and immoveable, lands, liveing, and otheris
perteaneing to the saides nmq^ Erie and Lord, And obtain herit-
able ryghtes of the landes and otheris foresaidis, and sell the
samen at the best availl, and gave power and commissione to
the said Charles to sell and dispone theirwpon to that ef-
fect; and what soumes of money or pryces the said Charles
Alexander should receive for the said estaite and landes, the
saids Lordes decemit the said Charles to distribute the same
amonges ws, the said haill creditoures ipro rata, in sua farre
as the samen wiU extend in maner and forme mentionat in
said decreit, as the samene of the dait foresaid at mair lenth
beires, &c.
" The said Charles Alexander obtenit decreits againes the aires
of the saides imiq^ Erie and Lord, and adjudicatione for apprys-
ing of their estaites and hes mellet, and intromitted with ther
estates of landes, moveable and wnmoveable, and hes intro-
mitted with and wptane the rentes and duties of these lands and
estait thir divers yeeres bygane, and hes sold and disponit
wpoun the great pairt of thir landes and estait, nameUe, to
Sir EoUocke of Duncrub, kny*, the landes and barrony of Tulli-
coidtrie, and certain otheris perteaneing to the saids umq* Erie
and Lord, for the soume of money of this realme,
received be him therefoir. Item to William Grahame of Spoil-
dare, the landis of Gartmoire and some otheris thereabout, for
the soume of money foresaid. . . .
" He hes made, nor intendes to make, no compt nor reckoneing
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196 MEMORIAI^S OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
to us, to the effect the samine may be distributed amongst ws
be him 'pro rata!*
On a report by the Committee of Bills, the Estates
appointed a commission " to ordeane the said Charles
Alexander to compt and reckone anent his intromis-
sione with the pryce of the landes and others per-
teaneing to the said umq^ Erie of Stirlmg and Lord
Alexander" (Acta Pari. Scot, vol. vi., part i., p. 333).
What account, if any, Charles Alexander supplied to
the Parliamentary commissioners is unrecorded ; he
became personally insolvent The disposal of Lord
Stirling's estates is stated in the records. On the 5th
July 1643, a charter of appraising of the lands and
barony of Tullibody was granted to Sir George
Morieson, Knight ; the lands are described as having
'' formerly belonged to Sir William Murray of Dun-
erne, Knight, Charles Alexander, son of the late
William, Earl of Stirling, as heirs, and to Lady Mar-
garet Douglas, Lady Alexander, as lady of the life-
rent thereof, and others" (Reg. Mag. Sig., lib. iv.,
336, foL 368i). In 1648 the lands of Tullibody were
acquired by Robert Meldrum, who was succeeded
by Major George Meldrum, his brother. This gentle-
man in 1662 sold the estate to William Sharp,* Keeper
of the Signet, along with the lands of Gogar, Perth-
shire, and of Brucklay, in Fife. By William Sharp,
styled in the conveyance "Sir William Sharp of
* William, afterwards Sir William, Sharp, was brother of the celebrated James
Sharp, Archbishop of St Andrews.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 197
Stonyhill," the lands of Tullibody were, on the 18th
April 1679, sold to George Abercromby of Skeith,
who in 1694 disposed of them to his relative, Alex-
ander Abercromby, second son of Sir Alexander
Abercromby, first Baronet of Birkenbog. By his
wife, Mary, daughter of Ralph Dundas of Manor,
George Alexander of Tullibody was father of General
Sir Ralph Abercromby, who fell at the battle of
Alexandria, on the 28th March 1801. His widow
was raised to the peerage as Baroness Abercromby
of Aboukir and Tullibody; she is now represented
by her great-grandson, George Ralph, fourth Baron
Abercromby, who owns the lands of Tullibody (Tulli-
body Charter Chest).
The estate of Menstry was mortgaged to Mr Robert
Murray of Woodend, Perthshire, minister first at
Strathmiglo, in Fife, and afterwards at Methven,
Perthshire, who, on the earFs embarrassments, fore-
closed. Being a zealous upholder of Presbyterian
polity, and a leader among his brethren, he incurred
the resentment of the Marquis of Montrose, who
wrecked the house of Menstry. By Mr Robert
Murray, the lands and barony of Menstry were sold
to General James Holburne,* who obtained sasine
on the 28th June 1649 (General Reg. of Sasines).
James Holburne of Menstry was subjected to im-
prisonment at Edinburgh for upholding the Covenant.
• A relative of this person, Colonel Robert Holburne, is described as ** com-
mander-in-chief of all the forces in Stirling,"* on the 27th Angast 1658, at which
date he was elected a burgess of that burgh (Stirling Burgh Records).
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198 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Petitioning the Privy Council for liberation, he was
on the 21st November 1667 recommended to the
royal clemency ; he obtained his liberty on granting
a bond for 12,000 merks to keep the peace (Reg. Sec.
CJoncilii Acta; WodroVs History, voL ii, p. 98),
In the estate of Menstry he was succeeded by his
eldest son James (Gen. Reg. of Sasines, voL xxxi., fol.
221), who married Janet, daughter of John Inglis of
Cramond, and had a son James, who was created a
baronet on the 21st June 1706. By Sir James Hol-
bume, Bart., the estate of Menstry was sold in 1719
to Alexander Abercromby of Tullibody ; the present
owner is his representative, Greorge Ralph, fourth
Baron Abercromby.
The Earl of Stirling's estate of Tillicoultry was in
1644 sold to Sir Alexander RoUo of Duncrub. It
has frequently changed owners, and a saying in the
district has long found popular credence that no heir
born to the lands will ever obtain actual possession.
The dispersion of Lord Stirling's estates is alluded
to in these rhymes :
** Oh, Alva woods are bonnie ;
TiUiconltry hills are fair ;
But when I think o' the bonny braes o* Menstry,
It makes my heart aye sair. "
Prior to the wreck of his father's affairs, Charles
Alexander acquired a right to the Stirling mansion ;
he resided in it till his death, which took place about
the year 1664. Subsequent to that event, the town
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 199
council of Stirling, who as patrons of Cowane's
Hospital, held a mortgage for £1000 on the mansion,
charged his son Charles to enter service as heir. On
his declinature, the town council foreclosed, and
took possession of the house. In the spring of 1665
proposals for its purchase were made by Archibald,
ninth Earl of Argyle, and in September of that year,
the Master of the Hospital reported to the town
council, that '' all the Earl of Argyle can be persuaded
to give for Charles Alexander's hous adjudged to
the Hospitall is onlie £1000, payable in four years'
tyme, and bearing interest from Whitsunday last."
The transaction was concluded in January 1666, when
the council granted a disposition in favour of Lord
Lome '' of that hous and ludging qlk perteinit to
lunq^ William Earle of Sterling and umq^ Charles
Alexander his sone," on payment of £1000. The
council appointed one of the magistrates and the
Master of the Hospital "to delyver the keyes o'
the hous to such as sail be appointed be the said
noble Earle to receave the same ; " and on the 30th
June 1677 caused " Charles Alexander's band to be
delett furth of the accompts, in regaird the Earle
of Argyle has given band to the Masters of the
Nether Hospitall for the soum of one thousand
pounds in satisfactioune thereof" (Stirling Town
Council Records).
To the Stirling mansion Lord Argyle added two
i^inngs — one on each side of the main entrance — also
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200 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
a screen wall, pierced by an elegant archway. The
Argyle crest was inserted in different parts of the
structure. Within it the Earl of Argyle entertained,
in 1680, the Duke of York, at whose instance, as
James VII., he was beheaded five years afterwards.
In the structure, John, Duke of Argyle, held his
council of war prior to the battle of Sherifl&nuir in
September 1715. Within it, in 1746, the Duke of
Cumberland passed a night, on his way to the north
to crush the rebellion.
On behalf of John, fourth Duke of Argyle, the
premises were exposed to sale on the 20th December
1764, and were then purchased for £560 by Robert
Campbell, merchant in Stirling, and James Wright
of Loss (Stirling Burgh Court Register). A portion
of the grounds was sold for building purposes, and
the mansion was, about the commencement of the
present century, transferred to the War Department ;
it is now used as a military hospital.
Lord Stirling's creditors made no attempt to profit
by his American possessions. When the French
obtained occupation of Canada and New Scotland in
1632, the earl's connection with these territories
virtually ceased. A large part of New England,
including the whole of Long Island, granted him by
the Plymouth Company in 1635, was in 1664 bestowed
by Charles II. on his brother, the Duke of York;
subsequently the French gained possession. These
territories were included in the conquest of General
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 201
Nicholson in 1710, and were confirmed to Britain in
1713 by the treaty of Utrecht.
The personal character of Lord Stirling presents a
twofold aspect. As a poet and private gentleman,
he was admired and loved. Sir Robert Aytoun has
celebrated him in an approving sonnet. In Latin
verse he is lauded by the poets John Dunbar,
Arthur Johnston, and Andrew Ramsay. Daniel in
his '' Philotas," Davies of Hereford in his '' Scourge
of Folly," Hayman in his '' Quodlibets," Habington
in his "Castara," and Lithgow in his ''Pilgrim's
Farewell," have severally commended him. Drayton
names him with affection, and Drummond of Haw-
thomden esteemed and honoured him. As a politi-
cian, he might have- acquired great distinction, but
he sacrificed his fame by striving to maintain a rank
which he was unwise to covet, and which two suc-
cessive kings were suflSciently weak to bestow. That
his intentions respecting the colonisation of New
Scotland were sincere and upright may not be ques-
tioned ; but losses in connection with the undertak-
ing involved him in difficulties, to escape from which
he had recourse to expedients which, if not wholly
unwarranted, cannot be approved. By his ingenious
contemporary, Sir Thomas Urquhart of Cromarty,*
his public character has, in the following narrative,
been pungently, but not unfaithfully portrayed :
* Tracts of the Learned and Celebrated Antiquarian, Sir Thomas Urquhart of
Cromarty. Edinburgh, 1774, 12mo.
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202 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
"As for such of the Scottish nation as of late have been
famous for English poesie, the first that occurs is Sir William
Alexander, afterwards created Earl of Sterling ; he made an in-
sertion to Sir Philip Sidney's ' Arcadia/ and composed several
tragedies, comedies, and other kind of poems which are extant
in a book of his in folio, entituled 'Sterling's Works.' The
purity of this gentleman's vein was quite spoiled by the corrupt-
ness of his courtiership ; and so much the greater pity, for by
aU appearance he had been contented with that mediocrity of
fortune he was born unto, and not aspired to those grandeurs of
the court, which could not without pride be prosecuted, nor
maintained without covetousness, he might have made a far
better account of himself. It did not satisfy his ambition to
have a laurel from the muses, and be esteemed a king amongst
poets, but he must be king of some new-found-l^d ; and, like
another Alexander indeed, searching after new worlds, have the
soveraignty of Nova Scotia. He was bom a poet, and aimed to
be a king ; therefore, would he have his royal title from King
James, who was bom a king and aimed to be a poet. Had he
stopped there, it had been well ; but the flame of his honour
must have some oil wherewith to nourish it. like another
King Arthur, he must have his knights, though nothing limited
to so small a number : for how many soever that could have
looked out but for one day like gentlemen, and given him but
one hundred and fifty pounds sterling (without any need of a
key for opening the gate to enter through the temple of vertue,
which in former times was the only way to honour) ; they had a
scale from him whereby to ascend unto the platforms of vertue,
which they, treading under foot, did slight the ordinary passages, '
and to take the more sudden possession of the temple of honour,
went upon obscure by-paths of their own towards some secret
angiports and dark postern-doors which were so narrow that few
of them could get in till they had left all their gallantly behind
them ; yet such being their resolution, that in they would, and
be worshipped upon any terms, they misregarded aU formerly-
used steps of promotion, accounting them but unnecessary ; and
most mdely rushing in unto the very sanctuary, they imme-
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 203
diately hung out the orange colours, to testifie their conquest of
the honour of knight-baronet. After this manner, my Lord
Sterling for a while was very noble ; and according to the rate
of sterling money, was as twelve other lords in the matter of
that firankness of disposition, which not permitting him to dodge
it upon inches and ells, better and worse, made him not stand to
give to each of his champions territories of the best and the most ;
and jJthough there should have happened a thousand acres more
to be put in the charter or writing of disposition then was agreed
upon at first, he cared not ; half a piece to the clerk was able
to make him dispense with that. But at last, when he had
enrolled some two or three hundred knights, who, for their hun-
dred and fifty pieces each, had purchased amongst them severall
millions of New-Caledonian acres, confirmed to them and theirs
for ever under the Great Seal, the afiixing whereof was to cost
each of them but thirty pieces more. Finding that the Society
was not likely to become more numerous, and that the ancient
gentry of Scotland esteemed of such a whimsical dignity as of
a disparagement rather than addition to their former honour, he
bethought himself of a course more profitable for himself and
the future establishment of his own state : in prqjecuting whereof,
without the advice of his knights (who represented both his
Houses of Parliament, clergy and all), like an absolute king in-
deed, disponed heritably to the French, for a matter of £5000 or
£6000 English moneys both the dominion and property of the
whole continent of that kingdom of Nova Scotia, leaving the
new baronets to search for land amongst the Selenites in the
moon, or turn knights of the sun ; so dearly have they bought
their orange ftban, which (all circumstances considered) is and
will be no more honourable to them or their posterity than it is,
or hath been, profitable to either."
Through his numerous oflSces and privileges. Lord
Stirling would, with ordinary prudence, have over-
come his colonial losses and become opulent. But,
by coveting higher rank, he increased his family
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204 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
expenses, while he constantly purchased lands on
borrowed money. His latter expedients were more
exceptionable than the first, and were altogether
unworthy of his rank. As a poet, he had attained
an elegance in advance of his age. Some of his
longer poems are indeed disfigured by conceits, but
his shorter pieces are refined and classical. His
''Paraenesis on the Death of Prince Henry" is
justly described by Pinkerton as "a noble poem."
His compositions generally were commended by
Addison, who was consulted respecting them by
A. Johnston, who in 1720 began to edit a collected
edition of them, which he did not complete. The
whole of Lord Stirling's poetical works were in 1870-72
collected and published by Messrs Ogle of Glasgow,
in three volumes, post octavo.
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CHAPTEE VIII.
WILLIAM, LORD ALEXANDEK, ELDEST SON OF THE EARL
OF STIRLING, AND THE DESCENDANTS OF HIS ELDEST
DAUGHTER, CATHERINE, LADY TORPHICHEN: MENZIES
OF CASTLE MENZIES; AND SHIRREFF OF FITZRAY,
UPPER CANADA.
WiLLLAM, eldest son of the Earl of Stirling, was bom
about the year 1604. He entered the University of
Glasgow in 1618, his name appearing in the register
as ''Gulielmus Alexander, haeres Doiil de Men-
strie " (Reg. Col. Glasg.). At the university he was
privileged to receive instructions from Robert Blair,
the eminent divine, then a regent of the college (Reid's
Irish Presbyterian Church, vol. i., p. 139). Receiving
the honour of knighthood, he was in the spring of
1628 appointed by his father governor of New Scot-
land. On the 26th March 1628, he received a pass,
authorising him to proceed to sea with four ships for
Newfoundland, the river of Canada, and New Scot-
land, for settling of colonies in those parts (Reg. of
Letters). Returning from Canada in autumn, he, on
the 25th December, " efter his retume from his sea
voyage, gave to the puir of Stirling fiftie-aught pundis
money " (Stirling Kirk Session Records).
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206 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
On the 11th May 1633, Sir William Alexander
received a royal patent for thirty-one years, " for the
sole trade in all and singular the regions, countries,
dominions, and all places whatsoever adjacent to
the river and gull* of Canada, and the sole traflBc from
thence and the places adjoining, for beaver skins and
wool, and all other skins of wild beasts " (Colonial
Papers, p. 165). When his father in 1633 was created
Earl of Stirling, he assxmied the courtesy title of Lord
Alexander. He was sworn as a member of the
Scottish Privy Council in November 1634, and on the
20th December a royal letter was issued at Hamp-
ton Court, appointing him an Extraordinary Lord of
Session in succession to his father. In 1635 he was
appointed a Commissioner for Surrenders (Register
of Letters and Books of Sederunt). On the 22d
April of the same year he received a grant from the
Council of New England, ''of all that 'part of the
mainland in New England from St Croix, adjoining
New Scotland along the sea coast to Pemaquid, and
so up the river to the Kiuebequi (Kiuebeck), to be
henceforth called the County of Canada ; also. Long
Island, to be called the Isle of Sterling " (Colonial
Papers, p. 204).
On the 29th March 1636, a contract was executed
between Lord Alexander on the one part, and
Mr James Gordon, one of the keepers of the Signet,
and Mr Thomas Murray, advocate, on the other part,
whereby the first assigned to the two latter his lease
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 207
of the teinds of the parish of Oldhamstocks (Register
of Deeds).
Lord Alexander died at London on the 18th May
1638 (Register of Letters).
According to Sir James Balfour,* his body was em-
balmed and conveyed to Stirling, and there deposited
in the family burial-place. His testament-dative and
inventory were given up by George Douglas, described
as ^' brother-german to Sir William Douglas of Glen-
bervie, knight," his eflfects being valued at £3023, 8s.,
while he owed the administrator 7660 merks. A
second testament - dative and inventory we have
abridged thus :
" Testament-dative and Inventar of the guides, &c., perteining
to the deceast William, Lord Alexander, oldest lawful sone to
the deceast William, Earle of Stirline, who deceast in the
moneth of February 1640, faithfully made & given up by Wil-
liam Gordoune, servitour to John Beane, wrytter to the signet,
only executor-dative decemit as creditor to the said vmquhile
William, lord Alexander, in sua far as the said deceast Williame,
earle of Stirline, and William, Lord Alex', abone designed, be
ther band & pbligatioun, subscribit with their hands, daittit the
xij day of August 1636 zeires, grantit them to have borrowit fca
James Philpe, then seruitor to the said deceast noble erle, the
sowme of j°* ij° merkis Scottis, &c., which was to be repaid
before Mertimes next, in anno 1636, with hquidat expenses &
annual rent. Philpe, by assignation dated 8 March 1654, made
Mr Harie Murray, son to Mr William Murray, his cessioner to
this bond, who, by letters of translation, dated 24 March 1655,
* Balfour's Annals, yoI. iL, p. 819. Sir James Balfour names March 1688 as
the period of Lord Alexander's death. We haye adopted the date, given in an
evidently contemporaneous memorandum, attached to Lord Stirling's " Register
of Letters."
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208 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
made it over to the said William Gordoune. Gordoune therefore
was appointed only executor to Lord Alexander by decreit of
the Commissary Court of Edinburgh, dated — March 1656.
"There was resting owing to him the sum of £53, 6s. 8d.
sterling, with expenses, by Thomas Kellies, esquair, by bond of
20 May 1639, amounting in all to viij^ lib. Scots. Summa of
the Inventar — ^viij® lib. No division. Mr James Gordoune,
wrytter, cautioner" (Edinburgh Com. Eeg., voL IxviiL).
Lord Alexander married Lady Margaret Douglas^
eldest daughter of William, eleventh Earl of Angus,
and first Marquis of Douglas. On the 8th November
1641, she received from the Exchequer a pension of
4000 merks. She made, on the 29th December 1659,
a disposition of her movable estate to her '' beloved
son-in-law," Walter, Lord Torphichen (Charter Chest •
in Calder House). She died on the 1st January 1660
(Wood's Douglas Peerage, vol. i., p. 441). Li the
testament-dative of Bailie Alexander Sandilands of
Edinburgh, dated 29th March 1669, is the following
entry : " Item, ther wes restand awand to the said
defunct be my lady Alex' principall, Walter, lord
Torphichane, Johne, Lord Balgonie, and Mr Williame
Douglase, Advocat, her cautioners, by bond, ij"^ merks
principall, with i^^ xx^^of bygane annualrentis, preceid-
ing the terme of Whitsonday 1668."
Of the marriage of William, Lord Alexander, and
Lady Margaret Douglas, were bom a son, William,
and two daughters, Catherine and Margaret.
William, only son of Lord Alexander, was bom
about the year 1632. He succeeded his grandfather
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 209
as second Earl of Stirling in February 1640, and died
in May of the same year. Catherine, the elder
daughter, married, April 1667, Walter, Lord Sandi-
lands,* subsequently sixth Lord Torphichen (Charter
Chest in Calder House). She died prior to the 13th
February 1686, when, in a discharge by Robert
Menzies, younger of that ilk, to her husband, in re-
spect of her marriage-contract, she is named as de-
ceased (Calder House Charter Chest). She was
mother of two daughters, who survived infancy.
Catherine Sandilands, the younger daughter, married
David Drummond of Cultmalindie, the marriage-
contract bearing date 29th April 1689; she died
without issue.
Anne, elder daughter of Lord Torphichen and
Catherine Alexander, married Robert Menzies, son
and heir of Sir Alexander Menzies of Castle Menzies,
their marriage-contract bearing dates 15th and 21st
February 1684 (Calder House Charter Chest). Rob-
ert Menzies died in 1691, having predeceased his
father, the first baronet. By his marriage with Anne
Sandilands he had two sons, Robert and James,
and two daughters. Christian and Catherine. James,
the second son, became a captain in the army, and
died without issue.
Sir Robert Menzies, Bart, of Menzies, elder son of
Robert Menzies and Anne Sandilands, married his
* Lady Catherine Alexander was second wife of the sixth Lord Torphichen.
He married first, Jean, daughter of Alexander Lindsay of Edzel, by whom he had
no issue (Douglas's Peerage).
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210 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
cousin Christian, daughter of Lord Neil Campbell,
by whom he had a daughter, Christian, who married
William Mackintosh of Mackintosh, and died without
issue. A son, Eobert, succeeded to the baronetcy,
and married Mary, eldest daughter of James, Earl of
Bute, but died without issue in 1786 (Deuchar's
Pedigree of the Alexander Family).
Christian, elder daughter of Sir Eobert Menzies
and Anne Sandilands, married first, Patrick Stewart
of Ballechin, without issue, and secondly, John Far-
quharson of Invercauld, to whom she bore a daughter,
who died in childhood.
Catherine Menzies, younger daughter of Sir Robert
Menzies and Anne Sandilands, married her relative,
Dr John Menzies of the family of Culterallers, by
whom she had two sons and a daughter. The
daughter. Christian Menzies, married Henry Lundie,
with issue, a son, Archibald, who became a Writer to
the Signet, and died in 1838.
Robert Menzies, eldest son of John and Catherine
Menzies, was a Writer to the Signet ; he died with-
out issue. Alexander, the second son, resided in
Edinburgh ; he married, and had a son, Robert, who
died without issue, and a daughter, Barbara, who
married Robert Shirreff, merchant in Leith. His son,
Charles ShirreflF, settled at Fitzray, Upper Canada.
In 1834, Mr Alexander Deuchar, an Edinburgh
genealogist, produced a narrative or "report," in
which he set forth that Mr Charles Shirrefi*, as repre-
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 211
sentative of the elder daughter of Lord Alexander,
and the Duchess de Coigny and Robert Hepburne
Swinton, Esq., as heirs -portioners of his younger
daughter Margaret, were entitled to the American ter-
ritories granted to the first earl. As William, second
Earl of Stirling, made up no feudal title as heir of
his grandfather in the American lands, Mr Deuchar
held that the right of succession " devolved upon his
two sisters, granddaughters of the first earl, who died
last infeft." He maintained that the representatives
of Catherine and Margaret Alexander were entitled
to receive from Government the sum of £10,000,
granted to the first Earl of Stirling in 1632, in satis-
faction of his losses by the destruction of Port Royal
— ^the sum, with interest, amounting to £110,000.
Empowered by the representatives of the two daugh-
ters of Lord Alexander to act on their behalf, he
despatched his son to Canada to institute further
inquiries. In the spring of 1841, Mr Deuchar,
junior, embarked at New York in the " President "
steam-ship, which was lost with all on board. Mr
Deuchar, senior, died not long afterwards. His
report, an elaborate and not uninteresting document,
is now in the possession of Mr Campbell Swinton of
EJmmerghame, Berwickshire.
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CHAPTER IX.
MAKGARET, LADY SINCLAIR, YOUNGER DAUGHTER OF
WILLIAM, LORD ALEXANDER, AND HER DESCENDANTS :
HAMILTON OF BARGANY, DALRYMPLE OF NORTH
BERWICK, DUCHESS DE COIGNY, KEITH OF RAVEL-
STONE, SIR PATRICK KEITH MURRAY, BART., SWINTON
OF THAT ILK, CAMPBELL SWINTON OF KIMMERG-
HAME, SIR WALTER SCOTT, BART., OF ABBOTSFORD,
AND HEPBURNE SWINTON OF SWINTON BANK.
Margaret, younger daughter of William, Lord Alex-
ander, became second wife of Sir Robert Sinclair,
Bart, of Longformacus. In her contract of marriage
she had settled on her 5000 merks, as a provision,
her liferent interest in which she conveyed to her
brother-in-law. Lord Torphichen (Charter Chest,
Calder House). In a sasine dated 24th and 25th
October 1672, Sir Robert Sinclair of Longformacus,
described as knight baronet, advocate, settles on
" Dame Margaret Alexander, his spouse, in liferent,
an annual rent of 3000 merks, furth of the lands of
the Lawes of Whitsum, in the parish of Whitsum
and shire of Berwick ; also ' furth of the lands and
barony of Ellon, in the parish thereof and shire fore-
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 213
said" (General Register of Sasines, vol. xxx., fol.
307).
On the 23d July 1681, Lady Sinclair obtained
infeftment in an annuity of 3600 merks, in virtue of a
contract between her and Sir John Sinclair of
Lochend, knight and baronet.
Of the marriage of Sir Robert Sinclair and Mar-
garet Alexander were bom three daughters. Cath-
erine, the eldest daughter, was bom in May 1673.
She was baptized in presence of Walter, Lord Tor-
phichen ; Sir George Lockhart, advocate, afterwards
Lord President of the Court of Session; and Sir
George Mackenzie of Rosehaugh, the celebrated
Lord Advocate (Edinburgh Baptismal Register).
Catherine died young. The other daughters were
Jean and Anne. Jean married the Hon. John
Hamilton, Master of Bargany, by whom she had an
only daughter, Johanna. She became first wife of
Sir Robert Dalrymple of Castleton, son of the Hon.
Sir Hew Dalrymple, Bart., of North Berwick, third
son of James, first Viscount Stair, Lord President
of the Court of Session. Sir Robert predeceased his
father, and left by his marriage with the heiress of
Bargany three sons and two daughters.
John Dalrymple, the second son, had the estate of
Bargany adjudged to him by the House of Lords,
and thereupon assumed the name and arms of Ham-
ilton of Bargany. He died without issue in 1796,
when his estate devolved upon his nephew. Sir Hew,
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214 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
third baronet Robert, third son, became a physi-
cian ; he died without issue. Of the two daughters,
Marion, the elder, married the Master of Reay, and
Elizabeth, the younger daughter, married William
Duff of Crombie.
Hew, eldest son of Sir Robert Dahrymple and
Johanna Hamilton, succeeded his grandfather in
1737 as second baronet. He held office as King's
Remembrancer, and was M.P. for the county of Had-
dington. He died in 1790, and was succeeded in the
baronetcy by Hew, his only surviving son, who
assumed the additional surname of Hamilton on
inheriting the Bargany estates. He married Janet,
daughter of William Duff of Crombie, by whom he
had four sons and three daughters.
Margaret Martha married Captain W. F. Browne,
and died in 1849 ; Janet, second daughter, married
Robert, Earl of Camperdown. Anne, third daughter^
married Alexander Oswald, Esq., and died in 1820.
James, third son of Sir Hew Dalrymple Hamilton,
married in 1816 Mary Christina, third daughter of
Sir James Nasmyth, Bart., by whom he had an only
daughter, Jemima. Robert Stair, fourth son,
died in 1819.
Hew, eldest son of Sir Hew Dalrymple, third
baronet, bom 3d January 1774, married, 19th May
1800, Jane, eldest daughter of Adam, first Viscount
Duncan of Camperdown, by whom he had an only
child, Henrietta Dundas, who married in 1822 Au-
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 215
gustin Louis Joseph Casimir Gustave de Franquetot,
Due de Coigny, who died at Paris, 2d May 1865.
The Duchess de Coigny has issue — Louise Jane
Henrietta Emily, who married, 9th December 1846,
John, tenth Earl of Stair; and Georgiana Jane
Elizabeth Fanny, who married, 15th June 1852,
Charles, third Earl Manvers.
Sir Hew Dalrymple Hamilton, fourth baronet, died
23d February 1824, and was succeeded by his brother,
Major-General Sir John Dalrymple Hamilton, who
married, 30th July 1806, Charlotte, only daughter of
the late Sir Patrick Warrender, Bart., by whom he
had two sons and five daughters. Helen Jane
married, 1833, Alexander Maclean of Ardgour,
Argyleshire. Georgiana married Lieut.-General Sir
W. H. Sewell, K.C.B. Charlotte Sophia married, in
1836,Major-General John Clark, K.H. Janet married,
29th April 1847, the Rev. James George Curry
Fussell. Patricia, the fifth daughter, is unmarried.
John Warrender, second son of Major-General Sir
John Dalrymple Hamilton, married, 7th June 1847,
Sophia, daughter of James Pattle, Esq., and has issue.
Hew, Walter, and Virginia. Hew, the eldest son,
bom 21st November 1814, succeeded his father as
sixth baronet, 26th May 1835. He married, 27th
July 1852, Frances Elizabeth, only daughter of Robert
Arkwright, Esq. of Sutton, Scarsdale, Derbyshire.
Anne, younger daughter of Sir Robert Sinclair,
Bart, of Longformacus, and Margaret, third daughter
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216 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
of William, first Earl of Stirling, married Sir John
Swinton of Swinton, Berwickshire (who died in 1724),
by whom she had four sons, John, Robert, Francis,
and WiUiam, and four daughters, Jean, Margaret,
Joanna, and Anne. Anne died young, and Margaret,
the second daughter, died unmarried. Joanna, the
third daughter, married Alexander Keith of Ravel-
stone, in the county of Edinburgh ; he purchased the
estate of Dunnottar in the county of Kincardine, and
died in 1792. Of his marriage with Joanna Swinton
were bom four sons, Alexander, William, (Jeorge,
and Robert, and two daughters, Agnes and Mar-
garet. Both daughters and the younger sons, Greorge
and Robert, died without issue.
Alexander Keith, eldest son of Alexander Keith
and Joanna Swinton, became a Writer to the Signet ;
he succeeded his father in the estates of Ravelstone
and Dunnottar. In April 1811 he married Margaret,
fourth daughter of Laurence Oliphant of Gask, and
sister of the Baroness Naime, who died 10th Sep-
tember 1847. Alexander Keith died without issue
m 1819.
William, third son of Alexander Keith and Joanna
Swinton, was bom in 1748, and died in 1803. By his
wife Mary Anne Rae of Coldsheaf, he had four sons,
Alexander, James, William, and John; and two
daughters, Agnes, who died unmarried, and Isabella,
who married James Wilson of WoodviUe, and died
in 1837.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 217
William, the third son, married Isabella Houison
Cranfurd, sister of William Houison Craufurd, Esq.
of Braehead and Craufurdland, and died in 1851.
John, the fourth son, died unmarried.
Alexander, eldest son of William Keith, bom in
1780, succeeded to the estates of Ravelstone and
Dunnottar on the death of his uncle in 1819. In 1822,
on the State visit of George IV. to Scotland, he re-
ceived die honour of knighthood, with the style and
dignity of Knight Marischal of Scotland; he died
in 1833. By his marriage with Georgiana Lamont he
was father of a son William, who was bom in 1815,
and died in 1825, and of a daughter, Helen Margaret
Oliphant, who married, 28th November 1833, Sir Wil-
liam Murray, Bart, of Ochtertyre, Perthshire, and
died in 1853. She was mother of ten sons and three
daughters. Her eldest son, Sir Patrick Keith Mur-
ray, Bart., bom 27th January 1835, succeeded his
father in the baronetcy in 1861 ; he married, first, in
1870, Frances Amelia Jemima, sixth daughter of
Anthony Murray of DoUerie, Perthshire, who died in
1872; secondly, a daughter of the Hon. William
Penney, Lord Kinloch.
James Keith, second son of William Keith, and
grandson of Joanna Swinton, was bom in 1783 ; he
practised as a physician at Edinburgh, and died in
1863. In 1823*he married Christian Graham, daughter
of Lieutenant-Colonel Maitland of Craigiebum, who
died in 1870, by whom he had three sons, William
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218 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Alexander and Charles Maitland, who died in infancy,
and Charles Maitland the second ; also two daughters,
Mary Anne, who died young, and Isabella Napier, who
married, in 1845, the Rev. Thomas Lewis Trotter,
rector of Great Stainton, and died in 1867.
William Alexander, eldest son of James Keith,
M.D., bom in 1828, is proprietor of Pogbie and vicar
of Burham, Kent.
Jean Swinton, eldest daughter of Sir John Swinton
of Swinton by Anne Sinclair, and great-great-grand-
daughter of William, first Earl of Stirling, was first
wife of John Rutherford, M.D., Professor of Medicine
in the University of Edinburgh. Anne Rutherford,
her sole surviving child, married, in April 1758,
Walter Scott, Writer to the Signet, Edinburgh, and
became mother of Sir Walter Scott, Bart.
Of the four sons of Sir John Swinton and Anne
Sinclair, Robert, the second son, married Catherine,
eldest daughter of Rutherford of Faimylee. Francis,
the third son, died abroad unmarried. William, the
fourth son, settled in North Berwick.
John Swinton, eldest son of Sir John Swinton of
Swinton and Anne Sinclair, was an advocate in Edin-
burgL He married Mary, only daughter of the Rev.
Samuel Semple,* minister of Liberton, in the comity
* The Bey. SamDel Semple was minister of liberton from 1697 to 1742, when
he died in his seventy-sixth year. Under the auspices of the Lords of the Trea>
snry, he collected materials for a histoiy of the Church of Scotland, and obtained
for his undertaking the sanction of the General Assembly. It was not carried
out (Fasti Ecd. Scot.).
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 219
of Edinburgh, by his wife Elizabeth, daughter of Sir
Archibald Murray of Blackbarony. Of this marriage
were born six sons, John, Samuel, Robert, Archibald,
Francis, and Pringle, and six daughters, Elizabeth,
Anne, Jean, Mary, Katherine, and Frances. The
daughters Frances and Jean died young ; Mary and
Elizabeth died unmarried Katherine, the fifth
daughter, married Walter Ferguson, Esq.^ and died
without issue. Anne, the second daughter, married
Robert Hepbume of Baads. Their son, Robert Hep-
bume of Clerkington, married Isobel, daughter of
John Mitchelson of Middleton, and had a son Robert ;
he married Miss Gordon, by whom he had several
children.
Of the six sons of John Swinton of Swinton, advo-
cate, Pringle, the youngest, died in infancy. Robert
and Francis, the third and fifth, entered the service
of the East India Company, and died abroad.
Archibald, the fourth son. Captain H.E.LC.S., and
aide-de-camp to Lord Clive, became proprietor of
Kimmerghame, Berwickshire. In 1776 he married
Henrietta, eldest daughter of James Campbell of
Blythswood, by whom he had three sons, John,
James, and Samuel Robert Archibald, and four
daughters. Harriet died unmarried in 1864, Maria
died unmarried in 1855, Agnes died young, and
Elizabeth Catherine is still alive, immarried.
James, second son of Archibald Swinton of Kim-
merghame, lieutenant in the East India Company's
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220 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
service, died at Madras in 1813. Samuel Robert
Archibald, third and youngest son, perished in the
wreck of the " Lady Burgess," East Indiaman, on the
20th April 1806.
John, eldest son of Archibald Swinton of Kimmerg-
hame, assumed in 1850 the additional surname of
Campbell on succeeding to his aunt, Mary Campbell,
by whom the estate of Kimmerghame, which had been
sold by his father, was repurchased in 1846. He
married, in 1809, Catherine, only daughter of James
Rannie, Esq., merchant in Leith, by whom he had
two sons, Archibald and James Rannie, and four
daughters, Catherine, who died June 1876, Mary,
Henrietta, and Agnes. Agnes, the youngest daughter,
married, in 1847, the Rev. George Murray, vicar of
Dedham, Essex, by whom she has two sons and one
daughter. Henrietta, the third daughter, married,
in 1845, Henry Davidson, Esq., by whom she has
three sons and one daughter,
Archibald Campbell Swinton, eldest son of John
Campbell Swinton, succeeded in 1867 to the estate of
Kimmerghame on the death of his father. He is an
advocate at the Scottish bar, and was from 1842 to
1862 Professor of Civil Law in the University of
Edinburgh. He married, first, Katherine Margaret,
daughter of Sir John Pringle, Bart, of Stichill, by
whom he has a daughter, Katherine Margaret. He
married, secondly, on the 7th October 1856, Georgi-
ana Caroline, third daughter of Sir George Sitwell,
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 221
Bart, of Renishaw, Derbyshire, and his wife Susan,
eldest daughter of Craufiird Tait, Esq. of Harvieston,
and sister of the present Archbishop of Canterbury.
Of this marriage there are three sons, John Liulf,
George Sitwell, and Alan Archibald, and one daugh-
ter, Alice Susan Lucy.
James Rannie, second son of John Campbell Swin-
ton of Kimmerghame, married, in 1865, the Hon.
Blanche Arthur Georgina, daughter of Lord de Ros.
Samuel Swinton, second son of John Swinton of
Swinton, advocate, was a captain in the Royal Navy.
He married, in 1766, Jean Felicity Le Febre (who
died in 1823), by whom he had four sons, Archibald,
Samuel, John, and Richard, and two daughters. Feli-
city Jean and Charlotte. Charlotte, the second
daughter, married Dr Browne, physician in India;
she died in 1857, leaving three sons, John, Clement,
and Samuel, and five daughters, Anne, Charlotte,
Georgiana, Mary, and Jessie. John, the eldest son,
and Jessie, the youngest daughter, died unmarried.
Mary, the fourth daughter, married Edward Colvin,
Esq., of the Civil Service, Bengal. Georgiana, the
third daughter, married Captain Hutton, of the Indian
Army, and has issue. Charlotte married Sir George
Lawrence, by whom she has had two sons and five
daughters. Anne, the eldest daughter, married Sir
Thomas Metcalfe, and died in 1842, leaving two sons
and three daughters.
Clement, second son of Dr Browne and Charlotte
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222 MEMORIAIJS OF THE EAKL OF STIBLiNO.
Swinton, is a colonel in the Indian Army. He has
been twice married, with issue. Samuel, third son, a
colonel in the Bengal Army, V.C, married his cousin,
Lucy Sherwood, and has issue.
Felicity Jean, eldest daughter of Captain Samuel
Swinton, R.N., married Archibald Mitchelson of
Middleton, by whom she had four daughters, Har-
riet, Caroline, Isabella, and Mary Anne. Harriet,
the eldest daughter, married John Tait of Pirn;
she died without issue. Caroline, the second daugh-
ter, married the Rev, John Hunter, D.D., minister of
Swinton, and afterwards of the Tron Church, Edin-
burgh. Isabella, third daughter, married Colonel
Hutchinson, of the Bengal Army, and left issue.
Mary Anne, fourth daughter, married the Eev. Alex-
ander Murray, and died without issue.
Archibald Swinton of Warsash, Hants, eldest son
of Captain Samuel Swinton, E.N., was a captain in
the Indian Navy. He married Louisa, daughter of
the Rev. Henry Binfield, by whom he had five sons,
Archibald, William, Edwaxd, Samuel, and Walter,
and five daughters, Louisa, Harriotte, Maynard,
Caroline, and Margaret. The daughters Caroline
and Harriotte are unmarried. Louisa, the eldest
daughter, died at Geneva in 1829. Margaret, the
youngest daughter, married John Buchan Hepburn,
Writer to the Signet, and has a large family. May-
nard, the third daughter, married Thomas Hog, Esq.,
and died in 1840, leaving four children.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 223
Archibald Swinton, eldest son of Captain Archi-
bald Swinton of Warsash, is a colonel in the Indian
Army. William Swinton, second son, married Mina,
daughter of John James Gibb, Esq., and has two sons
and one daughter. Edward Swinton, third son, served
as an officer of dragoons. He married Charlotte,
daughter of James Mackenzie, Esq., by whom he has
three sons and one daughter. The family has settled
in New England.
Samuel, fourth son of Captain Archibald Swinton,
was an officer in the 44th Regiment, and fell at the
battle of Afghanistan in 1842. Walter, fifth son, is
a colonel in the Indian Army.
Samuel, second son of Captain Samuel Swinton,
RN., purchased from his cousin the patrimonial
estate of Swinton, in Berwickshire. He died at
Swinton in 1839. By his wife, Isabella Routledge,
he had three sons, George Melville, John Moncton,
and Samuel Charles Alston, and five daughters, Anne,
Mary, Eliza Charlotte, Isabella, and Jessie Bebb.
Eliza Charlotte, the third daughter, married John
Melville, Esq., and is mother of five sons. Mary, the
second daughter, married, in 1822, Sir James Weir
Hogg, Bart Anne, the eldest daughter, married, in
1819, her father's cousin, George Swinton, secretary
to the Government of Bengal, and succeeded by the
death of her brothers to the family estate of Swinton.
They have had issue five sons, Archibald Adam, Alan,
George Keith, William Bentinck, and James Samuel,
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224 MEMORIAI^ OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
and two daughters, Margaret and Harriet Mary Eliza.
Harriet Mary Eliza, the second daughter, married
Major TuUoh of EUiston, with issue.
Archibald Adam, eldest son of George and Anne
Swinton, held an appointment in the service of the
East India Company. He married, first, Lydia,
daughter of Captain Eastgate, by whom he had
one daughter, who married the Rev. Robert Home,
minister of Swinton, and died 1875; and, secondly,
Isabella, daughter of Henry Normand, by whom he
has one son, George Herbert Taylor, and two daugh-
ters. Christian Margaret and Isabella Harriet. Alan,
the second son, was in the Civ\J Service of the East
India Company. George Keith, the third son, an
officer in the Bengal cavalry, died in March 1854.
William Bentinck, the fourth son, married Eliza,
daughter of Robert Cadell, Esq., of Ratho, by whom
he has had two sons and four daughters. He was
killed by a fall from his horse in India in June 1876.
James Samuel, fifth son, an officer in the Indian
Army, died in India in October 1857.
George Melville, eldest son of Samuel Swinton of
Swinton, held office in the East India Company's ser-
vice. By his wife, Mary Prendergast, he had a
daughter, who died unmarried. John Moncton and
Samuel Charles Alston, second and third sons of
Samuel Swinton of Swinton, died without issue.
John Swinton, third son of Captain Samuel Swin-
ton, was a colonel in the Indian Army. He died in
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 226
1825, leaving a son, Charles, colonel in the Bengal
Army, Richard, fourth son of Captain Samuel
Swinton, was a colonel in the army. He died in
India in 1828, leaving a daughter, who married
Colonel Jacob of the Bombay Artillery; she died
in 1853, leaving four sons.
John Swinton, eldest son of John Swinton of Swin-
ton, was admitted an advocate at the Scottish Bar, in
December 1743. He was appointed a judge in the
Supreme Court, taking his seat as Lord Swinton on
the 21st December 1782. He composed several
works on the law of Scotland, including an '' Abridg-
ment of the Public Statutes;" he died on the 5th
January 1799. By his wife, Margaret, daughter of
John Mitchelson of Middleton, he was father of six
sons, John, Samuel, Archibald, Robert, George, and
William, and of seven daughters, Margaret, Mary,
Isabella, Elizabeth, Harriet, Catherine, and Anne. The
daughters Anne, Catherine, Harriet, Isabella, Mary,
and Margaret died unmarried. Elizabeth, the fourth
daughter, married the Hon. Colonel Carnegie, by
whom she had a son, George, who died unmarried
Of Lord Swinton's sons, Samuel, the second son,
became colonel of the 74th Regiment, and died un-
married. Archibald, third son, a Writer to the Signet,
died unmarried. Robert, fourth son, died without
issue. George, the fifth son, was Chief Secretary to the
Government of Bengal. He married his cousin Anne,
afterwards Mrs Swinton of Swinton, and died in 1854.
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226 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
William, sixth son of Lord Swinton, was colonel in
the East India Company's service. He married
a daughter of Sir Robert Blair, by whom he had
eight sons and five daughters. His daughters Isa-
bella and Isabella Jessie died young. Charlotte Anne
and Mary are unmarried. Eliza, the eldest daughter,
married Donald Mackenzie Dunlop, Esq.
William, eldest son of Colonel William Swinton,
served as an officer in the army. He was acciden-
tally suffocated in his tent before Sebastopol, in
January 1855. Robert, second son of Colonel Swin-
ton, died young. John, third son, died in 1828.
Edward, fourth son, an officer in the Royal Artillery,
died in 1852. Robert Blair, fifth son, of the Madras
Civil Service, married Dorothea Elizabeth, daughter
of James Randall, Esq. George, sixth son, is an
officer in the Royal Engineers. Anson and Arthur,
seventh and eight sons, are officers in the Royal
Artillery. Arthur married Helen, daughter of the
late Colonel Murray Mackenzie.
John Swinton, advocate, eldest son of Lord Swin-
ton, passed advocate, and was appointed SheriflF of
Berwickshire. He married Mary Anne, daughter of
Robert Hepbume of Clerkington, by whom he had
two sons and two daughters. Isabella, the elder
daughter, died unmarried. Margaret, the younger
daughter, married the Rev. James Smith, minister of
Kelso, and died without issue.
John, eldest son of John Swinton of Swinton, died.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 227
in 1829, unmarried, when the estate of Swinton was
sold to his cousin Samuel.
Robert Hepbume, second son of John Swinton,
became proprietor of Swinton Bank, Peeblesshire;
he died in 1852. By his wife, Julia, daughter of
Thomas Harker, Esq., he had three sons and two
daughters, Julia Frances and Mary Anne Jane ; the
latter married Benjamin Nicholson, Esq. William
Murray, his youngest son, died unmarried in 1862.
Robert Hepbume, second son, is commander in the
Royal Navy. He married, first, Eliza, daughter of
James Hunter of Hafton, who died in 1863, leaving
a son, Robert Hepbume, and a daughter, Eliza Susan
Eccles; secondly, Caroline Jane Ross, daughter of
Henry Kendall, Esq., by whom he had one daughter,
who died young ; and thirdly, Alexa Hugh Monro,
daughter of Colonel Campbell of Ormidale, by whom
he has a son, John.
John Edulfiis Swinton, eldest son of Robert Hep-
bume Swinton of Swinton Bank, served as an officer
of the Indian Army. He died in 1871. By his wife,
Frances Jane, daughter of Daniel Ainslie of Garth
House, he left a daughter, Elizabeth, and a son,
John Edulf Blagrave, who is now head of the ancient
family of Swinton of that ilk.
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CHAPTER X.
SIR ANTHONY ALEXANDER — HENRY, THIRD EARL OF STIR-
LING AND HIS DESCENDANTS : FAMILIES OF PHILLIPS
LEE OF BINFIELD, AND TRUMBULL OF EAST HAMP-
STEAD ; THE MARQUIS OF DOWNSHIRE.
Anthony Alexander, second son of Sir William
Alexander, first Earl of Stirling, was registered a
student of the University of Glasgow, in March 1623.
By a letter addressed to the Privy Council, in July
1626, Charles I. gave him leave 'Ho proceed, for
three years, on foreign travel, the better to qualify
him for the gaining of languages and for otherwise
doing his Majestic and his countrie service " (Regis-
ter of Letters). While on the Continent he devoted
himself to the study of architecture ; and, in Novem-
ber 1628, the king's advocate was instructed to ap-
point him Master of Works, conjointly with James
Murray of Xilbaberton, who, since December 1607,
had held the office. The royal letter, authorising
his appointment, proceeds thus :
"To the Advocat — Trustie, &c. Whereas wee understand
that Anthony Alexander, son to Sir William Alexander, Secre-
tarie for that o' kingdom, by his learning & travells abroad hav-
ing acquired skill in architecturie, is able to do us service in the
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 229
place of M' of our works there ; And hearing likewayes that
James Murray, M' of Work, is willing to joyne the said Anthony
Alexander with him in the said place, reserving the benefit
thareof to himself during his lifetime; Our pleasure is that,
after conference with the said James Murray, and his consent
thereunto, you draw a grant, fitt for our hand, for both joyntlie
to serve in the said place during thare lyves — they haveing all
fees & priviledges justlie belonging or fitt to belong thareunto.
And for your soe doing these presents shalbe your warrand. — ^At
Whitehall, the 7th November 1628 " (Register of Letters).
Consequent on the royal warrant, Anthony Alex-
ander was, on the 1st April 1629, constituted Joint-
Master of the King's Works and Buildings in Scot-
land. On the 31st July 1632, a royal letter was
addressed to '' the Treasurer and Deputie/' requiring
that '^ the Master of Works be properly paid monthlie."
This order proving ineflFeetual, Anthony Alexander
was, by a royal letter dated 2d February 1633, in-
structed '' to wait on the Treasurer and his Deputie,"
that *' he may be supplied with money." A further
order for payment of his arrears was, on the 12th
December 1633, addressed by the king to the Com-
missioners of Exchequer.
In October 1632, Anthony Alexander was admitted
an honorary burgess of Stirling (Stirling Burgh Re-
cords). On the 9th January 1634, he and his former
colleague, now Sir James Murray, were appointed
''General Surveyors and Masters of Works," with
a joint-salary of £1200 Scots. In 1635 he was
knighted at Whitehall.
The renewed nomination of Sir Anthony Alexander
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230 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
as Joint-Surveyor and Master of Works was opposed
by the Scottish Lodge of Freemasons, who insisted
that the office belonged to their hereditary Grand-
Master, Sir William St Clair of Roslin.* Acting on
their protest, the Commissioners of Exchequer de-
layed giving effect to the royal warrant. But Lord
Stirling determined that his son should not be ex-
cluded from the emoluments of his office. He pro-
cured a royal letter, addressed to the Commissioners
of Exchequer, charging them to see that Sir Anthony's
gift do immediately pass the seals. In this letter,
which is dated the 27th February 1634-5, the king
instructed the commissioners to call before them Sir
William St Clair, and to examine him as to his pre-
tending '' ane heritable charge over the maissons of our
said kingdome." They were also to give order " that
the Maissons be examined by the Magistrates of
every town, and the Sheriflfe of every schyre " (R^.
of Letters).
Sir Anthony Alexander died at London on the
17th September 1637 (Reg. of Letters). His body
was embalmed, and conveyed by sea to Stirling,
where, by torchlight, it was deposited in the family
vault (Balfour's Annals, vol ii, p. 251). In compli-
ment to his memory, William Drummond of Haw-
thomden composed a poem, which appeared at
Edinburgh, with the title " To the Exequies of the
* By James II. of Scotland, the office of Grand-Master Mason was conferred on
William St Clair, Earl of Orkney and Caitlmess, Baron of Boslin, and on his
heirs who shonld hold the barony of Roslin.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 231
Honorable S^ Antonye Alexander, knight: A Pas-
torall Elegie." The poem follows :
" In sweetest prime and blooming of his age,
Deare Alcon, ravish 'd from this mortall stage
The shepheards raoum'd, as they him lov*d before ;
Among the ront him Idmon did deplore —
Idmon, who, whether snn in east did rise
Or dive in west, pour'd torrents from his eyes,
Of liquid chrystall, under hawthome shade ;
At last to trees and rocks this plaint he made :
Alcon, delight of heaven, desire of earth,
Off'Spring of Phoebus and the Muses' birth.
The Graces' darling, Adon' of our plaines.
Flame of the fairest nymphs the earth sustaines.
What power of thee hath us bereft ? What fate
By thy untimely fall would ruinate
Our hopes T death ! what treasure in one houre
Hast thou dispersed I How dost thou devoure
What we on earth hold dearest ? All things good.
Too envious heavens, how blast ye in the bud ?
The come the greedy reapers cut not down
Before the fields with golden eares it crowne ;
Nor doth the verdant fruits the gardener pull ;
But thou are cropt before thy yeares were full.
With thee, sweet youth, the glories of our fields
Vanish away ; and what contentment 3rields
The lakes their silver look ; the woods their shades.
The springs their christall want ; their verdure meads.
The yeares their early seasons ; cheerful dayes
HiUs gloomy stand now desolate of rayes ;
Their amorous whispers zephires not us bring ;
Nor do aire's quiresters salute the spring ;
The freezing winds our gardens do deploure.
Ah, Destinies ! and you whom skies embower.
To his faire spoiles his spright againe yet give.
And like another phoenix let him live.
The herbs, though cut, sprout fragrant from their stems
And make with crimson blush, our anadems.
The sun when in the west he doth decline.
Heaven's brightest tapers at his fnnerall shine.
His face, when wash'd in the Atlantick seas,
Revives and cheeres the welkin with new ndes.
Why should not he, since of more pure a frame,
Retume to us againe and be the same ?
But, wretch, what wish I? to the winds I send
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232 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
These plaints and prayers, Destines cannot lend
Thee more of time, nor heaven's consent will thus
Thou leave their starry world to dwell with us :
Yet shall they not thee keep amidst their sphearea
Without these lamentations and teares.
Thou wast all vertue, courtesie, and worthy
And as Sun's light is in the moon set forth,
World's supreame excellence in thee did shine ;
Nor, though eclipsed now, shalt thou decline.
But in our memories live, while dolphines streames
Shall haunt, whilst eaglets stare on Titan's heames ;
Whilst swans upon their christall tombes shall sing ;
Whilst violets with purple paint the spring.
A gentler shepherd flocks did never feed
On Albion's hills, nor sung to oaten reed :
While what she found in thee my muse would blaze,
Griefe doth distract her, and cut short thy praise.
How oft have we, inviron'd by the throng
Of tedious swaines, the cooler shades among
Contemn'd earth's glow-worme greatnesse, and the chace
Of Fortune scom'd, deeming it disgrace
To court unconstancy ? How oft have we
Some Chloris' name graven in each virgin tree.
And finding favours fading, the next day
What we had carv'd, we did de&uoe away.
WoefuU remembrances ! nor time nor place
Of thy abodement shadows any trace .
But there to me thou shin'st : late glad desires.
And ye once roses, how are ye tum'd bryers I
Contentments passed ; and of pleasures chiefe.
Now are ye frightfcill horrours — ^heUs of griefe 1
When from thy native soyle love had thee driven.
Thy safe retume prefigurating, a heaven
Of flattering hopes did in my fancy move ;
Then little dreaming it should atomes prove,
These groves preserve will I, these loved woods.
These orchards rich with fruits, with fish these flouds ;
My Alcon will retume, and once againe
His chosen exiles he will entertaine ;
The populous city holds him. Amongst harmes
Of some fierce Cyclops, Circe's stronger charmes.
These bankes, said I, he visit will and streames.
These silent shades ne'er kist by courting beames ;
Far, far off I will meet him, and I first
Shall him approaching know ; and first be blest
With his aspect : I first shall heare his voice ;
Him find the same he parted, and rejoice.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 233
To learne liis passed perills, know the sports
Of forraine shepheards, fawns, and fairy courts.
Now pleasure to the fields : an happy state
The swaines enjoy, secnre from what they hate ;
Free of proud cares, they innocently spend
The day ; nor do black thoughts their ease offend ;
Wise Nature's darlings, they live in the world.
Perplexing not themselves, how it is hurl'd.
These hillocks Phoebus loves, Ceres these plaines ;
These shades the Sylvans, and here Pales straines
Milke in the pailes ; the maides which haunt the springs
Daunce on these pastures, here Amintas sings ;
Hesperian gardens ; Tempo's shades are here.
On what the Eastern Inde and west hold deare.
Come then, deare youth, the wood-n3rmphs twine thee bought,
With rose and lily to impale thy brows.
Thus ignorant I mus'd ; not conscious yet
Of what by Death was done ; and ruthlesse fate.
Amidst these trances fame thy losse doth sound,
And through my eares gives to my heart a wound ;
With stretched-out arms, I sought thee to embrace.
But clasp'd, amazed, a coffin in thy place.
A coffin 1 of our joyes which had the truste.
Which told that thou wast come, but chang'd in dust
Scarce, even when I felt, could I believe this wrake,
Nor that thy tyme and glory, Heaven would break.
Now, since I cannot see my Alcon's face,
And finde nor vowes, nor prayers to have place
With guiltie starres ; this mountaine shall become
To mee a sacred altar ; and a tombe
To famous Alcon ; heere as dayes, months, yeares,
Do circling gUde, I sacrifice will teares ;
Heere spend my remnant tyme, exiled from mirth.
Till Death in end turn monarch of my earth.
Sheepheards on Forth, and ye by Doven rockes.
Which used to sing, and sport, and keep your flockes.
Pay tribute heere of teares ; yee never had
To aggravate your moanes a cause more sad.
And to their sorrows hither bring your mandes,
Charged with sweetest flowers and pure handes ;
Faire n3rmphes, the blushing hyacinth and rose
Spred on the place, his relicts doth enclose 1
Weave garlands to his memorie, and put
Over his hearse a verse in cjrpresse cut :
' Yertue did die, goodnesse but harme did give.
After the noble Alcon left to live.
Friendship an earth-quake suffer'd, loosing him
Love's brightest constellation turned dim.' "
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234 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Sir Anthony Alexander married Elizabeth, daughter
of Sir Henry Wardlaw of Pitreavie, without issue
(Balfour's Annals).
Henry Alexander, Lord Stirling's third son, entered
the University of Glasgow in March 1626. Connect-
ing himself with mercantile affairs, he, on the 13th
October 1634, received letters patent under the Great
Seal, conjointly with Patrick Maule of Panmure,
James Maxwell of Innerwick, and Sir Thomas Thom-
son of Duddingston, Knight, granting them the sole
privilege, for thirty-one years, of exporting goods from
Scotland to Africa. They were authorised to trade
*' with any part, beginning at the river Senegal, lying
in 16J degrees north latitude, and so along the sea
shores in all rivers, lakes, ports and stations of ships,
as well as on the continent as the islands by land and
sea, comprehending Simla (Solyma?), Rielaga (Rio
Lagos), Benny (Bonny), the isle of Prince, St Thomas,
Cabo of Lepo (Cape Lopez), Congales (Congo), An-
gola, and all other places, rivers, and islands as far
as the Cape of Good Hope, lying in 34^ degrees south
latitude, or thereabout," and also to import goods
from Africa to Scotland (Reg. Mag. Sig., lib. iv.. No.
15, foL 15b, Paper Register).
On the 21st April 1636, the king granted to Henry
Alexander, and his associates, with their *' colleagues,
James Birott, inhabitant of Agnasgrani, in Germany ;
Jerome Leswelt and Matthew Linnen, Belgians, in
Western Africa," the exclusive power of trading with
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 235
the parts of Africa named in the preceding charter
(Reg. Mag. Sig., lib. iv., No. 109, fol. 1326).
On the 9th November 1636, Henry Alexander
was admitted a burgess of Stirling (Stirling Bm^h
Records). About the same time, he was appointed
Agent of the Convention of Royal Burghs. He mar-
ried, on the 9th December 1637, Mary, youngest of the
three daughters of Sir Peter Vanlore, Bart, of Tyle-
hurst, Berkshire. The circumstances of the marriage
are related in the following letter, dated 16th Decem-
ber 1637, addressed by the Rev. G. Garrand, after-
wards Master of the Charterhouse, to the Earl of
Stafford :
" A grandchild of Vanlove's (Vanlore's) — rich Peter Vanlove —
was to be married to a son of Sir Thomas Eead's ; he who lay
seven years in the Fleet, and spent but 18d. a-week; he lives
now at Brockett Hall, near Hatfield. Read hath estated upon
this second son of his £1500 a-year; and a match was intended
with Mrs Vanlove, who had a portion of £4000, and £400 a-year
after the death of her father, young Peter: Monday, the 18th of
this month, they were to be married; the day before, in the
afternoon, she sends to speak with one Mr Alexander, a third
son of the Earle of Stirling, Secretary of Scotland here ; he comes,
finds her at cards, Mr Eead sitting by her : she whispers him in
the ear, asking him if he had a coach (he was of her acquaint-
ance before), he said, yes; she desired Mr Bead to play her
game, and went to her chamber, Mr Alexander going along with
her. Being there, she told him, that to satisfy her friends, she
had given way to marry the gentleman he saw, but her affection
W6W more to him ; if his were so to her, she would instantly go
away with him in his coach, and be married. So he carried her
to Greenwich; where they were married by six that evening"
(Stiaflford's Letters and Dispatches, ii 141, 142).
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236 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
The father of Sir Peter Vanlore was an opulent
jeweller in London. A native of Utrecht, he traded
in London in connection with the Heriots. An
Exchequer warrant having, in August 1628, been
granted to James Heriot, the king's jeweller, for
£1150 as a portion of £8880 claimed, a petition was
presented by Jacoba, Lady Vanlore, setting forth that
a portion of the money was due to Sir Peter Vanlore,
her deceased husband, whereupon she received a
warrant for £7160 (Signet Ofl&ce Docquet Book).
Peter Vanlore first appears in the records in March
1616, when he is styled *' of London, merchant." He
had a discharge for £5000 paid by him for his licence
to export 16,000 cloths, together with £2000 more
paid by order of the Lord Treasurer Salisbury to the
Earl of Dunbar. In the instrument of discharge,
it appears that he had given a loan to the Earl of
Dunbar, and supplied to the king both money and
jewels (Signet Office Docquet Book).
In November 1621, James I. borrowed from Sir
Peter Vanlore £10,000, which he delivered to Philip
Burlamachi, merchant, to be conveyed to Sir Dudley
Carlton, Ambassador President in the Low Countries.
Sir Peter advanced a further sum of £10,000 for the
like purpose, receiving 8 per cent, interest. He
was repaid by an Exchequer warrant, dated 31 st
July 1625. In a discharge granted to the Duke of
Buckingham for procuring royal jewels by the king's
order, dated 23d November 1626, are named *' two
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 237
fower-square table diamondes, bought of Sir Peter
Vanlore, Knight" (Paper Office, Annual Grants,
Charles L).
Sir Peter Vanlore died prior to 1628, and was suc-
ceeded by his son, who bore the same Christian name.
The latter acquired the manor of Tylehurst, Berk-
shire, by some alliance with the Kendrick family,
and was, in 1628, created a baronet. He married
Susan, daughter of Lawrence Becks of Antwerp;
but died without male issue in 1645, when the title
became extinct. Of his three daughters, co-heiresses,
Jacoba, the eldest, married Henry Alexander, alias
Zinzan, the elder. Susan, the second daughter,
married Sir Robert Crboke of Elvachen, Bucks. The
third daughter, Mary, married, as already shown,
Henry Alexander, third son of the Earl of Stirling.
On the 7th June 1638, Henry Alexander, with his
wife, Mary Vanlore, presented a petition to the Lord
Treasurer, praying that he might be paid the sum of
£1000, which Sir Peter Vanlore had bequeathed to
each of his three grand-daughters (Calendar of State
Papers). On the 11th January 1661, the husbands
of the three daughters of Sir Peter Vanlore, Bart.,
entered into an indenture with Maurice Vanlore of
London, only surviving son of John Vanlore, son of
John Vanlore, brother of Sir Peter Vanlore, the
elder, in regard to the settlement of certain property.
To the indenture is appended the following note:
'' Be it remembered that the above- written, the right
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238 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
honourable Henry, Earl of Stirling, did not seal and
deliver the Indenture aforesaid to be his act and
deed" (Close Rolls, Charles 11., reign 13, part iv..
No. 30).
Henry Alexander succeeded as third Earl of
Stirling on the death of his nephew, William Alex-
ander, second earl, in May 1640. He died in 1650,
leaving by his wife, Mary Vanlore, an only son,
Henry, who succeeded him as fourth earl ; also, two
daughters, Mary and Jane.
Mary Vanlore, Countess of Stirling, married, as
her second husband, John Blount, a colonel of his
Majesty's Horse, and who had obtained some dis-
tinction for his military services. In 1660, Colonel
Blount, on behalf of Mary and Jane Alexander,
daughters of the late Earl of Stirling, presented a
memorial to Charles II., praying that the sum of
£10,000, granted by the late king to the first earl, in
compensation of his losses in New Scotland, and still
unsettled, might be paid to his representatives. The
memorial proceeds thus :
" To THE King's Most Excellent Majestie, the Humble
Petition of Col. John Blount, the Ladys Maby and Jane
Alexander, Daughters of the late Earle of Sterlinis,
« Sheweth.— That Will™' late Earle of Sterline, Principal
Secretary of Scotland, having, to his vast Expence, & the
Wastenge of his whole estate in Scotland, Planted a Colony in
Nova Scotia, and a peace beinge concluded between his late
Ma**« of euer blessed memory & the late French Eng, Nova
Scotia was included in the Articles of peace to be rendered to
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 239
the French, by which the said Earle's whole fortune there was
lost, for reparation whereof his late Ma**^ was graciously pleased
to thinke himselfe bound in equity to relieve him, & grant his
pattents for the reimbursement and pajrment of £10,000 to him
& his assignes out of the Excheq'' and all other the proffits in
Scotland, whatsoever that should first arise: But the warres
ensuing there, and afterwards here, the said Earle and his Son,
flfather to your petitioners, Mary and Jane, dyed before payment
of the said £10,000 ; and your Pet' John marryed Dame Mary,
Countesse of Sterlinge, and disbursed for her necessitys and pre-
servation of her Estate and her children, £2500.
" In tender consideration whereof, and for that £10,000 is all
the expectancie and subsistance of your Pet"' Mary and
Jane, & to reimburse your Pet' John, who faithfully
served his late Ma"® & your Ma*'* ever since the first
warre in Scotland, and commanded your Ma**®'* owne
Eegiment of Horse, That your Ma*** will be graciously
pleased to grant your Letters Pattents for the satisfac-
tion of the said £10,000, in proportion to your Pet"' out
of your Ma**®'» Receipts in Scotland or other wayes as
your Ma*** shall think fitt.
"And your Pet" shall ever pray, &c.
" Whttehall, ^th December 1660."
By the Earl of Lauderdale, Secretary of State, the
memorial was forwarded to the Lord Chamberlain,
with the following instruction :
" His Maty* being sensible of the Pet" condition and suffer-
ings, is graciously inclined to releive them, and is pleased to refer
their case to the Eight Hon"* the Lord Chambirlane of his
Ma*** hous, that he may consider of their pretentions in equity
to Nova Scotia, and to report what he conceaves fit to be done
therein, whereupon his Maty* will declare his further pleasura
" Lauderdaill."
By the Earl of Manchester, Lord Chamberlain, was
presented the following report :
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240 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF CTIRLING.
"Pet* of Coll. Johs Blouxt, &a. Read at the CoMMnTEE,
THE 12th March 1661.
•* May it please yo' most Excelleiit Ma*** — ^According to your
Ma*** reference to me vpon the Petition annexed, I soe find, by
the patent therein mentioned, of the late King CTharles, your
Boyall FathCT of blessed memory. That William, late Earle of
Steiline, did, by speciall order and command from his said
Ma**^ according to Articles with the French King, render back
to the French his plantation of Nova Scotia; in consideration
whereof His said Ma*** conceived himselfe bound to relieve him,
and gave him the said Patent for Tenne thousand pounds pay-
able out of the first profitts of the Sevenue of Scotland, which
the Petitio' affirms to be yett unsatisfyed ; And therefore humbly
conceive it equitable that the Petitio" may be paid the same.
And in all humility submit it to y^ Mat** Soyal consideration.
''Manchester.'*
Contemporaneously with the application of Colonel
Blount, the guardians of Henry, fourth Earl of Stir-
ling, submitted to the Privy Council the following
memorandum :
" The Case of the Right Hon"* Henry, Earle of Sterunb,
ToucHiNO Nova Scotu, in America.
" King James, by his Letters Patents, vnder the Greate Seale
of Scotland, beareing date 10th Dec. 1621, did give and grant
vnto Sir William Alexander, afterwards Earl of Sterline, and his
heires, all that County of New Scotland.
" King Charles, by his Infeofiinent under the Great Seale of
Scotland, of the 12th of July 1625, did give, graunt, and dis-
pose vnto the said Sir William Alexander, his heires and
assignes. All and singular the lands and dominion of the Signo'
of New Scotland, in America.
" King Charles, by his Letters Patents, vnder the great Seale
of Scotland, beareing date the 3d of May 1627, reciteing the
InfeofiTm* afores*", did graunt vnto the said Sir William Alexander
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 241
and his heires the Admiraltie of New Scotland, in America. Sir
William Alexander afterwards dyed, Henry, Earle of Sterline,
beinge his soune and heire, who is likewise dead, Henry, now
Earl of Sterline, being his sonne and heire. It is said that S'
William Alexander did in his lifetime, by the King's generall
command, withdraw his Plantations in New Scotland. But if
any such thing was, it was done vpon consideration of £10,000
to be paid vnto him by the King, haueing expended in settling
the Plantation there above £20,000, which £10,000 are to this
day vnpaid.
" It is humbly prayed by the now Earle of Sterline, that in
regard the 10,000 li remain vnpaid, and that the Sig^« of
New Scotland is now in the possession of his Majestic,
that his Majestic would be pleased to continue vnto him
the graunt of that Countrie.
" {In do7*8o), — The Case of the Earle of Sterline, touching Nova
Scotia." *
Lady Mary Alexander, elder daughter of Henry,
third Earl of Stirling, married Robert Lee, Esq. of
Binfield, Berkshire. She died without issue in 1682.
On the 12th April of that year letters of administra-
tion in the Prerogative Court of Canterbury were
granted to her husband, Robert Lee, Esq.; she is
described as '' Lady Mary Lee als Alexander, late of
St Martin in the Fields, co. Middlesex."
Lady Jane Alexander, second daughter of the third
earl, died unmarried. Her will, dated 14th January
1707, was proved in the Prerogative Court of Canter-
* Writing in March 1760 to M^'or William Alexander, the American claimant
of the title of Earl of Stirling, Mr William Phillipa Lee of Binfield, nephew of
the fifth Earl of Stirling, remarks ; "The recovery of the American territories to
the famUy proved too much for my uncle Lee, who often solicited in favour of the
yonnger children of my grandfather, Stirling, hut without success ** (Life of Major-
General William Alexander, Earl of Stirling, p. 45).
Q
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242 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
bury on the 1st March of the same year. She is
described as of the parish of St James, Middlesex ;
she directed that her remains should be buried at
Binfield, near the grave of her sister. She left rings
of thirty shillings value to her nephew, Lord Stirling,
to her niece. Lady Judith TrumbuU, and to Sir William
Trumbull; £10 to her brother-in-law, Robert Lee;
£10 to her niece, Lady Mary Phillips, and to her
husband a ring of thirty shillings value ; also £10 to
each of her nephews, Robert and Peter Alexander.
The residue of her estate she bequeathed to her
niece. Lady Jane Alexander, whom she appointed
executrix.
Henry, fourth Earl of Stirling, only son of Henry,
the third earl, married, first, Judith, daughter of
Robert Lee, Esq. of Binfield. He married, secondly,
Priscilla, daughter of Sir Hugh Windham, Bart., and
relict of Sir Robert Reynolds of Elvetham, near
Hartley Row, Hampshire. Sir Hugh Windham, a
merchant in London, was a scion of the family of
that name, owners of the estate of Trent, Somerset-
shire. He became the possessor of Pillesdon Court,
Somersetshire, and was created a baronet on the 4th
August 1641. He married Mary, daughter of
Christopher Alanson, Esq., of London, and had four
daughters, his co-heiresses. Priscilla, afterwards
Countess of Stirling, was bom 16th May 1626 ; she
married, first, on the 23d May 1646, Robert Reynolds,
Esq. of Elvetham, who was subsequently knighted
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 243
(Parish Register of St Mary, Aldermanbury); secondly,
Henry, fourth Earl of Stirling. The marriage licence,
which was issued at the Faculty Office on the 17th
November 1683, proceeds thus :
" Hany Alexander, Earl of Stirling, in the Kingdom of Scot-
land, widower, & Dame Priscilla Eeynolds, of Elvetham, co.
Southampton, widow — to marry at St Mary at Hill, St Clement
Danes, or St Paul's, Covent Garden, London."
The earl made the declaration in person, and sub-
scribed it /' Stirline."
Henry, fourth Earl of Stirling, died in February
1690 ; his remains were, on the 11th February 1690,
interred in the family burial-place at Binfield (Register
of Binfield Church). In his will, dated 13th June
1683, and proved in the Prerogative Court of
Canterbury, 27th May 1691, he nominated as his
executors, Robert Lee, Esq., and his ''dear sister.
Dame Jane Alexander," to whom he bequeathed
*' goods, plate, Jewells, and personall estate whereso-
ever and whatsoever, in trust, that they shall sell and
dispose of the same to pay debts, and divide surplus-
age amongst all my children, except the eldest Lord
Alexander." On the 24th November 1691, adminis-
tration was granted in the Prerogative Court of
Canterbury, on the estate of "Priscilla, Countess
Dowager of Stirling, late of Elvetham, co. Southamp-
ton, to her daughter, Dame Priscilla Knight, cUias
Calthorpe, wife of Reynolds Calthorpe, Esq."
By his second marriage, Henry, fourth Earl of Stir-
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244 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
ling, had no issue. Of his first marriage were bom
six sons and three daughters. Henry, the eldest son,
was bom on the 7th November 1664 ; he succeeded
his father as fifth earl, and lived in retirement. In
the Caledonian Mercury y an Edinburgh newspaper, on
the 2d October 1733, he is thus noticed : " On Sunday,
the Right Honourable the Earl of Stirling of N.
Britain waited on their majesties at court. It is
remarkable his lordship was not at court since the
second year of K. William III., choosing to live
private, and is eighty years old. He was introduced
by Sir Robert Walpole, and graciously received." In
reality, the earl was in his sixty-ninth year. He died,
without issue, on the 4th December 1739 (tombstone
inscription in Binfield Church). He married Eliza-
beth, widow of John Hobby* of Bisham Abbey,
Berkshire. His will, dated 28th February 1738-9,
was proved in the Prerogative Court of Canterbury
on the 13th December 1739. He directed that his
remains should be buried at Binfield, near his aunt
Jane, and his brother William, and appointed as his
executors his sister. Lady Judith Trumbull, and his
nephew, Robert Lee. Portions of his estate he be-
queathed to his nephews, Robert Lee and William
Trumbull, and to Richard Hobby, youngest son of
* An Act passed the House of Lords on the 20th May 1690 for "granting to
Elizabeth, relict of John Hobey, Esq., and now the wife of Lord Alexander, son
and heir-apparent of Henry, Earl of Stirling, on annuity, a yearly rent charge
for her life in satisfaction of £500 per annum in lands which ^e was to have for
her jointure " (House of Lords' Journal).
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 245
the late Sir Thomas Hobby, Bart. To his two
nephews, Charles and William Phillips, he bequeathed
£300 each.
William, second son of the fourth earl, was bom
on the 28th December 1665 ; he died on the 7th March
1665-6 (Binfield Church Eegister). William, second
of the name, and third son, was baptized 6th June
1667 ; he died 24th October 1699. In the Eegister
he is styled "William Alexander, Esq. of Turvill"
(Burial Eegister of Binfield). Eobert, fourth son of
Lord Stirling, was baptized 9th September 1673 ; he
died in October 1710. Peter, the fifth son, was bap-
tized at Binfield on the 10th May 1677 ; he died in
1678. Peter, second of the name, was baptized at
Binfield on the 23d March 1679 ; he died in London
in November 1729, and was interred in St Anne's
Church, Westminster (Burial Eegister, St Anne's,
Westminster).
Of the three daughters of Henry, fourth Earl of
Stirling, Jane, the youngest, married Ealph Stubbs,
doctor of medicine. She died in 1729, when her
husband administered to her estate, and at the same
time, 17th October 1729, he also took out letters of
administration de bonis non on the estate of her aunt.
Lady Jane Alexander, to whom she was executrix.
Lady Mary Alexander, eldest daughter, married
John Phillips, and had issue, three sons — Charles,
Eobert, and William. The two former seem to have
died young. William, the youngest son, succeeded
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246 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
to the estate of Binfield, when he added Lee to the
family name. Lady Mary Phillips or Alexander was
buried at St Anne, Soho, on the 27th March 1721.
On the 4th April of the same year, letters of admini-
stration were granted on her estate to John Crook-
shanks, Esq., "curator assigned of her minor chil-
dren, Charles, Robert, and William."
Lady Judith Alexander, second daughter of Henry,
fourth Earl of Stirling, married Sir William Trumbull,
the learned civilian and friend of Pope. Sir William
was bom at East Hampstead,* Berkshire, in 1636.
Educated at Oakingham, and at St John's College,
Oxford, he afterwards travelled on the Continent and
practised as an advocate in Doctors' Commons, Li
1671 he was appointed Chancellor and Vicar-G^neral
of the Diocese of Rochester, and in 1683 accompanied
Lord Dartmouth in the expedition to Tangier as
Judge -Advocate of the Fleet. On his return to
Britain he was knighted, and in 1685 was sent as
ambassador to France, where he relieved some of
the distress attending the revocation of the Edict of
Nantes. He was recalled in 1686, and sent on an
embassy to Constantinople, where he remained till
1691. He obtained the confidence of William IIL,
in whose government he became a Lord of the
* Eaat Hampstead, an ancient regal mansion, was, in 1622 and 1628, occupied
by James VI. Soon afterwards, the park was granted to William Trumbnll, one
of the clerks of the Privy Council, from whom it descended to Sir William
Trumboll. It is now a seat of his descendant, the Marquis of Downshire (Burke's
Visitation of Seats, 2d series, vol. ii., p. 151).
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 247
Treasury, attaining, in 1695, the ofl&ce of Secretary
of State. Consequent on a court intrigue, which led
to the downfall of Lord Sunderland, he resigned his
secretaryship in 1697, and thereafter retired into
private life. He established his residence at East
Hampstead, where he cherished the society of his
learned contemporaries. He was attracted to Alex-
ander Pope, a retired merchant at Binfield, by his
remarkable skill in gardening, especially in producing
artichokes. The son of this person was the cele-
brated poet. Sir William became acquainted with
him in 1704, when he was in his sixteenth year, and,
inviting him to his residence, made him his com-
panion. Through his fatherly counsels, the poet was
led to abandon certain habits of levity into which he
had fallen. The translation of the Iliad was under-
taken at his suggestion. Sir William continued the
poet's attached friend till his death, which took place
on the 14th December 1716. Pope has celebrated
him in these lines :
** A pleasing form ; a firm, yet cautious mind ;
Sincere, though prudent ; constant, yet resigned :
Honour unchanged, a principle profest,
Fix*d to one side, but moderate to the rest :
An honest courtier, yet a patriot too ;
Just to his prince, and to his country true :
Fill'd with the sense of age, the fire of youth,
A scorn of wrangling, yet a zeal for truth :
A generous faith, from superstition free ;
A loye to peace, and hate of tyranny :
Such this man was ; who now, from earth removed,
At length enjoys that liberty he loved."
WiUiam Trumbull of East Hampstead, only son
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248 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
and heir of Sir William Trumbull and Lady Judith
Alexander, married Mary, daughter of Montagu,
Lord Blundell, and died in 1760, leaving an only
child, Mary, who married the Hon. Martyn Sandys,
and left an only daughter and heiress, Mary Sandys,
who married, 29th June 1786, Arthur Hill, second
Marquis of Downshire. She was created Baroness
Sandys in 1802, and died 1st August 1807, Her
present representative is her great-great-grandson, the
Marquis of Downshire, who holds the estates in
England formerly possessed by the Earls of Stirling.
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CHAPTER XL
YOUNGER CHILDREN OF SIR WILLIAM ALEXANDER, EARL
OF STIRLING: JEAN, VISCOUNTESS MONTGOMERY;
MARGARET, LADY MURRAY OF DUNEARN ; LADY
ELIZABETH ALEXANDER; LUDOVICK AND ROBERT
ALEXANDER, AND JOHN, CHARLES, AND JAMES
ALEXANDER, AND THEIR DESCENDANTS.
The Earl of Stirling was survived by his wife, Janet
Erskine, on whom, by a royal warrant issued "at
his Majestie's palace of Halyruidhouse, the eight day
of November 1641," was settled " a yearlie pensioune
of two hundreth pounds sterling." Subsequent to
her husband's death. Lady Stirling resided at Mount
Alexander, in Ireland, with her eldest daughter, the
second Viscountess Montgomery. William Mont-
gomery of Eosemount refers to a staflF which she used
subsequent to 1649, formed of a bow presented to
one of the Montgomery family by Charles I. (Hill's
Montgomery Manuscripts, p. 92).
Lord Stirling's family consisted of eight sons and
three daughters. Jean, the eldest daughter, married
Hugh,* afterwards second Viscount Montgomery of
* Hugh Montgomery, second Viscount, was eldest son of Sir Hugh Montgomery
of Bnddstane, who settled in Ireland, and was on the 8d May 1622 created
Viscount Montgomery of the Qreat Ards, county Down. Sir Hugh was lineally
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250 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
the Ards, Ireland. The marriage was solemnised on
the 3d August 1623 in Kensington Church, London
(Kensington Parochial Eegister). Lord Montgomery
erected a family residence near Comber, county Down,
which he named Mount Alexander in honour of his
wife. He died at Newtown, Ireland, 15th November
1642. Lady Jean Alexander married, secondly.
Major -General Eobert Munro, * and died in the
autumn of 1670, leaving by her first husband three
sons and one daughter.
According to her son-in-law, the author of the
''Montgomery Manuscripts" (Hill's edit, 403), Lady
Montgomery inherited a portion of her father's genius,
descended from Robert Montgomery, brother of Alexander, second Lord Mont-
gomerie, father of the first Earl of Eglinton (Burke's Dormant and Extinct
Peerages, p. 878).
* Robert Munro was of the family of Fowlis in Kilteam. He distinguished
himself in Flanders, and afterwards in the war carried on by Gustayus Adolphus
of Sweden against Ferdinand II. Of his services against Ferdinand, he has pub-
lished an account in a work entitled, "Munro*s Expedition with the worthy
Scots Regiment, called MacEey's Regiment, levied in 1626, under the invincible
King of Sweden, 1637." Returning to Scotland, he joined the Covenanters,
and obtained a command in the north, with the title of msjor-generaL During
his northern expedition, he committed severe ravages on the estates of those who
opposed the Covenant, and took many prisoners. Receiving a command in Ulster
in 1642, he there continued the same predatoiy courses. In 1648 he received a
commission under the new Broad Seal of England, appointing him commander-
in-chief of the English as well as the Scottish forces in Ulster. On the 18th
May of that year he surprised and seized the town of Belfast, a proceeding
which was deemed a violation of an agreement between the English and Scottish
Parliaments, which provided that Munro was only to occupy Coleraine and Car-
rickfeigus. He experienced a humiliating defeat on the field of Benburb in
1646. Though the English Parliament remonstrated, Munro retained posses-
sion of Belfast till 1647, when he was seized by Monk and sent a prisoner
to London. He was imprisoned in the Tower for five years. Obtaining the
favour of Cromwell, he returned to Ireland, when he married the widow of
Viscount Montgomery. He was alive in 1680 (Montgomery MSS., 168, 181,
199, 415).
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MEMORIALS OF THE EABL OF STIRLING. 251
which she exhibited by composing sacred verses.
She was a zealous Presbyterian.
Elizabeth, only daughter of Viscount Montgomery
and Lady Jean Alexander, married William Mont-
gomery of Eosemount, author of the Montgomery
MSS. She died on the 15th November 1677, aged
forty-two. Her husband died 7th January 1706.
Their family is represented in the female line by
Major Frederick Campbell, late of the 50th Regiment
(Montgomery MSS., 404).
Of the three sons of Hugh, Viscount Montgomery,
and Lady Jean Alexander, Henry, the second, died
young. James, the third son, was bom at Dunskey in
1639. Hugh, the eldest son, succeeded his father as
third Viscount Montgomery ; he was created in 1661
Earl of Mount Alexander. Thomas Montgomery,
fifth Earl of Mount Alexander, great-grandson of the
first earl, died in 1757, when the family honours
became extinct (Burke's Dormant and Extinct
Peerages).
Margaret Alexander, second daughter of the Earl of
Stirling, married Sir William Murray of Duneam and
Claremont, Fifeshire. The marriage was solemnised
in Kensington Church, London, and in the register of
that parish is recorded thus : '' 1620, Mr W. Murray
and Mrs Margaret Alexander, daughter of Sir William
Alexander, a Scottish knight, July the 20th." Sir
William Murray was descended from that branch of
the House of Murray which had been seated at Black-
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252 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
barony, Peeblesshire, since the middle of the fifteenth
century; he was created a baronet 1st July 1626.
On the 12th November 1633, Sir William Murray and
his wife, Margaret Alexander, " obtained ratification
of a pension of £1200 Scots, granted them by his
Majesty during their mutual lives " (Earl of Stirling's
Register of Letters).
By his wife, Margaret Alexander, Sir William
Murray had four sons, of whom William, the eldest,
styled of Newtown, married a daughter of the first
Lord Elibank, and succeeded to the baronetcy. The
line of succession was afterwards continued through
James, the youngest son of the first baronet Sir
James Murray, Bart., great-great-grandson of the first
baronet, was a distinguished ofl&cer during the first
American war. He married, in 1794, Henrietta,
Countess of Batti in her own right, when he assumed
the surname of Pulteney. He held the ofl&ce of
Secretary of War, and was colonel of the 18th foot
and a general officer in the army. He died without
issue on the 26th April 1811. The family is now
represented by Sir Robert Murray of Claremont, a
lineal descendant of the first baronet and his wife,
Margaret Alexander (Burke's Peerage.)
Elizabeth, third daughter of the Earl of Stirling,
died, unmarried, in December 1642. Her will was
produced by her mother, styled '' Dame Janet
Jlrskine, Countess of Stirling," her only executrix.
Francis, Earl of Buccleuch, was stated to be indebted
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING, 253
to her in the sum of £16,666, 13s. 4d. Scots.
She bequeathed her entire estate to her mother.
The witnesses to the will were her brothers Charles
and James; Sir William Murray of Dunearn, her
brother-in-law ; and Sir W. A. Murray, his son (Edin-
burgh Commissariat Eegister).
Of the four younger sons of the Earl of Stirling,
Ludovick, the seventh son, died after attaining man-
hood. A royal letter, dated Whitehall, 13th Decem-
ber 1634, addressed to all mayors, sheriflFs, justices
of the peace, vice-admirals, searchers, and all others,
grants " permission to Ludovick Alexander, son of the
Earl of Stirling, to replair unto France and to embark
at any port with his two servants " (Reg. of Letters).
Robert, the sixth son, was incorporated a student
of Glasgow College in 1634. He is in the Univer-
sity Register described as '' filius Gulielmi Comitis
Sterlinensis." He died prior to June 1638 (Baillie's
Letters, vol. i., p. 76).
John, the fourth son, was matriculated a student
in the University of Glasgow in 1630 (Reg. Col.
Glasg.). On the 20th April 1635, he was, conjointly
with his father, appointed Master of Minerals and
Metals in Scotland (Reg. Mag. Sig., vol. iv., p. 60,
Paper Register). He was afterwards nominated
General of the Mint, an office which yielded his suc-
cessor £500 per annum, with perquisites (Reg. Mag.
Sig., lib. iv.. No. 237).
John Alexander married Agnes, only daughter of
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254 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Eobert Graham of Grartmore, Perthshire. Robert
Graham died in 1634. He was present at a court of
the Stewartry of Menteith, held at Doune Castle on
the 16th January of that year ; and on the 9th Octo-
ber thereafter, Alexander Barclay, notary in Stirling,
appeared before the same court as procurator for
Agnes Graham, described as "lawful dochter of
umq^ Robert Graham of Gartmoir, and with consent
of John Alexander, lawful son to ane noble and
potent erle, William, Erie of Stirling, Lord Alex-
ander, her spouse." Barclay presented '* an inquest
of our Sovereign Lord, directed to the Steward of
Menteith, for serving Agnes Graham nearest and
lawful heir to the said umq' Robert " (Register of the
Steward or Seneschal of Menteith). Agnes Graham
died some time prior to the 23d January 1636, when
her husband, John Alexander, was, along with Lord
Stirling, invested in that portion of the lands of Gart-
more which had belonged to her. These lands were,
at the instance of Lord Stirling, erected into a barony
(Reg. Mag. Sig., passim).
A portion of Gartmore, on the death of Robert
Graham, became possessed by his son Gilbert, who
died in 1641. On the 31st October of that year,
Alexander Barclay, notary, appeared before the Sheriflf
Court of Stirling, charging Janet Alexander, only
daughter of John Alexander and the deceased Agnes
Graham, to enter heir to her uncle in the lands of
Gartmore (Sheriff Court Book, Stirling).
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 266
John Alexander ordinarily resided in his father's
mansion at Stirling. On the 18th June 1639, William
Eonald, messenger-at-arms, proceeded to his house at
Stirling, " q' his wyfe, baimis, and famillie dwellis,**
and there served him with a writ charging him for
payment of 4800 merks Scots, borrowed by his father,
the Earl of Stirling, from Robert Murray, and for
which 4ie and the late William, Lord Alexander, the
late Sir Anthony Alexander, James Kinninmonth,
Chamberlain of Fife, and Mr James Gordon, Keeper
of the Signet, were joint-cautioners (Register of Ap-
prisings, vol. iii., foL 110).
In 1641 John Alexander was '' put to the horn,"
and subjected to personal restraint. Having sought
liberation from the Estates of Parliament, he obtained
thereafter the following warrant, dated 12th August
1641:
" The qiihilke day, the supplicatione givine in to the Parlia-
ment be Johne Alex'- craveing to be put to libertie furth of the
Tolbxiith of Edinburghe, wher he remednes incarcerate be war-
rand from the Committie of Estates, being red in audience of the
Parliament, and y© desyre therof considerit be them. The
Estates of Pco^Uament ordeanes the Jevellour of the said Tol-
booth of Edinburghe to delyver the said Johne Alexander furth
of there waird to Sir Johne M^'Keinzie,* in respect y« said
Sir John M^Keinzie is become actit, and hes obleidged himselfe
to y« parliament to exhibit the said Jo»- Alexander befor them
within twentie dayes."
* Sir John Mackenzie was created a baronet of New Scotland on the 2l8t May
1628. He was son of Sir Roderick Mackenzie, brother of the first Lord Mac-
kenzie of EintaiL
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256 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Not long afterwards, John Alexander resigned his
ofl&ce as General of the Mint He was succeeded by
*' Master James Hope of Watterheid/' who, on the
30th September 1641, received from Charles L a
life gift of the office, with a salary of £500 per
annum, and " the free passage of three stones of the
purest utter fine silver yearly, and the other powers,
privileges, and liberties pertaining to the office* (Reg.
Mag. Sig., lib. iv.. No. 237, fol. 2656, Paper Register).
In the commission of James Hope, his successor
as General of the Mint, John Alexander is styled '' of
Garthmure." He died in 1641, and in the year fol-
lowing the lands and barony of Gartmore were ap-
praised by Charles Alexander on behalf of his father's
creditors. They were afterwards sold to William
Graham of Polder, to whom they were conveyed by
a charter under the Great Seal on the 17th March
1645. In the Kirk Session Records of Port of
Menteith, ''Sir William Graham of Gartmoir" is
named, in April 1668^ as having been elected an elder
of the parish.
Charles Alexander, fifth son of the Earl of Stirling,
entered the University of Glasgow in March 1632
(Reg. CoL Glasg.). On the death of his brother
John, in 1641, he was entrusted with the administra-
tion of his father's estate for behoof of his credi-
tors. In 1647 Catherine and Margaret Alexander,
daughters of the late William, Lord Alexander,
granted him a discharge in respect of certain subjects
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 257
at Stirling (Stirling Eegister of Sasines). On the
9th June 1649, he assigned to John Schort, Com-
missary of Stirling, " that part of the lands of Cajn-
busbarron called the Kerss," which had belonged to
the Earl of Stirling, his father, and which had, on
the 24th May 1647, been appraised from his nieces,
daughters of Lord Alexander, for "default of pay-
ment of £1000 steriing, and of £800 annuity owed
during the last seven years " (Reg. Mag. Sig., Paper
Register, Ub. v.. No. 325, fol. 1416).
Charles Alexander married, and had a son, Charles,
who, on the 23d May 1655, graduated in the Uni-
versity of Edinburgh (Reg. CoL Edin.). In the
'' Testament Testimentar of Dame Margaret Cock-
bum, Lady Clerkingtone," who died in September
1668, Charles Alexander, described as "sone to
umquhile Charles Alexander, lawfull sone to the last
Earle of Stirling," became cautioner ''as ane act
heires " (Edin. Com. Reg., vol. Ixxiii.).
James Alexander, eighth and youngest son of the
Earl of Stirling, entered the University of Glasgow in
1635 (Reg. Col. Glasg.). He became an officer in the
army. He married, first, 16th August 1656, Mar-
garet, daughter of Captain David Scrimgeour, by
whom he had a daughter, Jean, who was baptized
3d September 1657 (Edinburgh Baptismal Register).
On the 9th July 1658, he, on behalf of his daughter
Jean, administered the will of her maternal grand-
mother, Jean Cockbum, relict of Captain David
R
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258 MEMORIALS OF THE EABL OF STIBLING.
Scrimgeour. He married, secondly, about 1668,
Grizel, daughter of James Hay, yomiger son of
George, second Earl of EinnonlL By her he had a
daughter, Margaret, baptized 23d June 1669, tlie
witnesses being George, Earl of Linlithgow, and Sir
George Baird of Newbyth, Senators of C!oll^e of
Justice, Sir Charles Erskine, Lord Lyon King of
Arms, and Sir William Murray of Newtown (Edin-
burgh Baptismal Blister). James Alexander was
portioner of the lands of Rednock, Perthshire.
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CHAPTER XII.
FAMILY OF SIR WALTER ALEXANDER.
Among those who followed James VI. to England
on his accession to the English throne, was Walter
Alexander, a scion of the House of Menstry. Walter
Alexander was bom at Stirling in 1572 (Funeral Cer-
tificate, College of Arms). He obtained the office of
'' gentleman usher, daily waiter," to Prince Henry, an
appointment which only yielded him, at the outset,
a salary of £20, with free board. From time to time
he received special grants and emoluments. Having
obtained, in February 1604, a patent of denisation,
he was, in the same month, granted the life keeper-
ship of Folly John Park in the Forest of Windsor,
*' with the fee of fourpence per day, and the pasturage
of the park," after the death or surrender of William
Duck (Docquet Book of Exchequer),
Walter Alexander married, first, Sara Gray, a
native of Scotland. On the 30th July 1604, he and
Sara, his wife, received from the king, for their joint
lives, a pension of £100 per annum (Patent Rolls).
Early in November 1605, he married, secondly, Anne
Fowles. On the 4th November 1605, the king
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260 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
granted him at his marriage ''one guilt cup and
cover, bought of John Williams, forty oz." His
Majesty also substituted the name of Anne Fowles
in the grant of pension (Patent Roll, James L,
iv. 18).
Anne, second wife of Walter Alexander, was
daughter of Alphonsus Fowles of St James's, West-
minster, Justice of the Peace. He was related, it is
supposed, to Thomas Fowlis, goldsmith in Edinburgh,
who, in 1593, granted goods to the value of £14,594
Scots for the royal permission to work the gold and
other mines in Crawford Muir, and who, in 1613,
was associated with Sir William Alexander and an-
other in a grant of the mine at Hilderston. Alphon-
sus Fowles died on the 16th February 1634-5.
On the 6th January 1607-8, Walter Alexander was
associated with his relative William Alexander, after-
wards Earl of Stirling, in receiving a patent for re-
covering and uplifting arrears of taxes due to the
Crown, these amounting to £12,000, and of which
the receivers were allowed to retain one-half as com-
mission (Exchequer Warrant Book, vol. iL).
On the 10th Jime 1621, Walter Alexander was,
along with William Alexander, eldest son of Sir
William Alexander, admitted an honorary burgess
of Stirling (Stirling Burgh Records).
Among those who followed the court from Scotland
to London in 1603 was the celebrated jeweller, George
Heriot, and his half-brother, James. The latter suc-
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 261
ceeded George as court jeweller. James Heriot died
on the 12tli February 1623-4. In his will, which is
dated 10th December 1623, he testifies his respect
for Walter Alexander by nominating him an overseer
in the administration of his affairs (Steven's History
of Heriot's Hospital).
On the 4th February 1623, Walter Alexander re-
ceived a royal patent, granting him and his heirs
and assigns a thousand acres of the escheated lands
of Ballynlagh, Lissafatt, Ballincimelle, Aghegreagh,
Aghekimore, and Granard, all in the county of Long-
ford (Patent Koll, James I., b. 20, iv. 8, Kecord Office,
Dublin).
Those who received grants of escheated lands in
Ireland were bound, within twelve months after
obtaining possession, to erect buildings and plant a
colony. Walter Alexander presented a petition, en-
treating an extension of time for the erection of his
buildings, on which was presented to the Privy
Coimcil the following report:
" Maie it please y' Hon"* Lordships, Wee have considered of
a peticon presented to his Ma*** by M' Walter Alexander, gent.,
Usher to the Prince. And whereas his humble suite is, that he
may have some year or two space for finishing of certaine build-
ings upon three severall pportions of land in the County of Long-
ford, containing in all 1000 acres, w<* he could not accomplish
within the tyme limitted by reason of the greatnes of those build-
ings, though, as he alledgeth,his fyne is paid, together with theEent
for the tyme past, and till materialls of his building be prepared.
V Forasmuch as the peticoner is a well-deserving gentleman, and
of good meritt, we doe therefore humblie advise that your Lord-
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262 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
ships would be pleased to move his Ma*** for his gracious letters
of direction to the Lo. Deputy, that the peticoner may have
time till the feast of the nativitie of our Lord in the year 1625
for performing of his buildings, and that in the meantime no
advantage be taken against him for his former omission, pro-
vided he enter into new recognizance in the Chancery for pay-
ment of his Eent, with the arrearages thereof, as also of his fyne,
if any shalbe yett unpaide, and performing such other condicons
as are required by his Maj*** instructions for the building and
planting of the said three several pporcons before the feast day
aforesaid And we likewise hold it fitt that during the peti-
coners absence from thence, he should continually keepe some
substantiall person for his Agent, to dwell and be resident upon
his said land.
'' Sergeants In, Fleet Street, the 23 Jamuiry 1623-4. James
Key, William Jones, Aech. Fobtescue, H. Holcboft."
By the recommendation of the Privy Council, a
royal letter was addressed to the Lord Deputy of
Ireland, permitting Walter Alexander to delay the
erection of his buildings "till the nativitie of our
Lord Gk)d, 1626" (King's Letters, Record Office,
Dublin). The royal favour was further extended to
Walter Alexander in respect to a lawsuit in connec-
tion with his Irish estates, as appears by the following
letter from the king to Viscoimt Elye, Chancellor of
Ireland :
" to cub bight tbusty and weel-beloved cousin and coun-
sellob, the Viscount Elte» oxtr Chancellob of oub
Realm of Ibeland.
'' Bight, &c. Wee are infoimed ihat a suit has long depended
in the Court of Chancerie in that our kingdome, between our
servant, Walter Alexander, Esq., and S' James Craig, knight^
notwitiistanding of divers letters written by oure late deare father
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 263
in his behalf, whereby our said servant hath been long frustrated
of what is justlie due unto him. And now, in regard to his
attendance hereon, he cannot convenientlie follow his suite
otherwise than by his Counsell and agent. Our pleasure is,
therefore, that you take care to put a final and speadie end unto
the said business, that our said servant may finde the fruits of
Justice, and your endeavour in the ready execution thereof,
whereof we will take particular notice. So we bid, &c.
" Whythall, 16 of October 1626 " (Reg. of Letters).
On his Irish estate, as "undertakers," Walter Alex-
ander placed four persons, namely, William Alex-
ander, James Alexander, William Drummond, and
James Philp (King's Letters, Record Office, Dublin).
These seem to have speedily withdrawn, for in 1633
Waltei: Alexander sold the estate to Alphonsus
Fowles, his father-in-law (Auditor-General's Depart-
ment, Eecord Office, Dublin). In 1640 it was con-
veyed by Matthew Fowles to the trustees of the Earl
of Westmeath (Patent Roll, Charles I., Dublin Record
Office).
On the 19th November 1625, a warrant under the
Privy Signet was granted to Sir Henry Hobart, Chief
Justice of the Court of Common Pleas, and others,
authorising them " to scale and subscribe a lease unto
Walter Alexander, gent. Usher, daylie wayter, of a
ffarme or grange, called Henton Grange, with the
appurtenances, in the county of Somerset, for the
tearme of twenty-one yeares in reversion, after the
determination of two lyves, being at the yearly rent
of £49, 8s. 3d., reserved upon a former lease thereto
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264 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
graimted unto him for eighty yeares " (Patent Roll,
Charles I., part viii., 125). On the 10th of February
1626 Walter Alexander received a grant of Henton
Grange for the period of ninety years, as an equiva-
lent for a liferent to himself and his son Henry.
In a royal patent, dated 29th February 1629-30, it
was provided that "the King's four Gentlemen Ushers,
Dayly Wayters, Sir Peter Young, knight, Walter
Alexander, Peter Newton, and William Glover,"
should, for their better advancement, receive lar-
gesses and fees on the creation of dignities. An arch-
bishop, it was fixed, should, on his appointment, pay
them £10, a duke £20, a marquis £15, an earl £10, a
viscount £8, a bishop £5, a baron £6, 13s. 4d, a
baronet £5, and sherifis and heads of corporations
£5. On the 7th December 1630, Walter Alexander
was knighted at Whitehall. Of his history we obtain
no further particulars till his death, which took place
on the 2d April 1637. His remains were interred in
St Margaret's Church, Westminster (Burial Register).
His will, bearing date 29th March 1637, proceeds
thus :
" In the name of God, Amen, a.d. one thousand six hundred
& thirty-seaven, And in the thirteenth yeare of the raigne of
our Soveraigne Lord, Charles, by the grace of God, of England,
Scotland, Fraunce, and Ireland, king, defender of the faith, &c., I,
Sir Walter Alexander, of the parish of Saint Margarett, West-
minster, in the county of Middlesex, knight, one of the gentle-
men ushers unto the said king^s most excellent Majesty, being
now weake in bodie, but of good and perfect memorie, praise
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 265
therefore I give unto Almighty God, doe make my last Will and
Testament in writinge in manner and forme following : That is
to say. First and principally, I doe recommend my soule unto
Almightie God, my Maker, & Jesus Christ, his sonne, my onely
Saviour and Eedeemer, by the meritts of whose death and pre-
tious bloodsheddinge, my whole trust & confidence is to be saved
and made partaker of the etemall kingdom. As concerning my
Bodie, I recommend it to be decently buried at the discretion of
my Executrix herein after mentioned. Concerning that Talent
of warldlie means which it hath pleased God to bless me with,
I doe give, bequeath, and dispose of the same in manner and
forme following : Impiimis, I give and bequeath unto the poore
of the said parish of Saint Margarett's, Westminster, the soume
of Four pounds Sterling. Item, I give and bequeath unto my
second daughter, Ann Alexander, nowe being unmarried, the
soume of one thousand pounds of lawfull money of England, to
be paid unto her att her marriage, or at her age of one and
twenty yeares, which shall first happen. Item, I give and devise
out of a lease of Two score and nineteen yeares made unto me
by Alphonsus Fowle, Esq., of all those garden-grounds, some-
times parcel of one of those called or known by the name of
Gravelpitts Close, and one parcel of meadowe-ground, to the said
garden-ground next adjoining, called or known by the name of
Five Acres, lying and being neere TotthiU, in the foresaid parish
of St Margarett's, Westminster ; And all and singular, houses,
edifices, and buildings, now standing and being in and upon the
premises, demised and granted by the said Lease, Together with
all Orchards, Gurdens, Backsides, feeding meadowes, pastures,
wayes, casements, and other commodities there, and every of
these appurtenances thereto belonginge or appertayning, unto
my lovinge wife, Dame Ann Alexander, for the better mjdntain-
ance of herself and her children during the term of Forty yeares,
if she happen soe long to live. And the residue of the yeares
that shall remain unexpired of the said lease, at the tyme of
her decease, I doe give and devise the same unto my eldest
Sonne, Charles Alexander. Item, I give and bequeath unto my
sayd Sonne, Charles Alexander, the soume of Threescore Pounds
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266 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STLRUNG.
of lawfull money of England, and unto my second sonne, Henry
Alexander, the soxime of forty pounds of like money, to be so
paid unto them yearely, out of the rents, issues, and profits of the
said Lands & Tenements and Buildings, by my said wife. Dame
Ann Alexander, during the tenn of her naturall lifa Item, I give
and bequeath unto my said sonne, Henry Alexander, the soume
of one thousand pounds of lawfull money of England, to be paid
unto him within three months next, and inmiediately after the
death of my said wife. Dame Ann Alexander, by her Executors
and Administrators. Item, I give and bequeath unto my eldest
daughter now maryed, Lucie Herbert, the soume of fifty pounds
Sterling. Item, I give and bequeath unto my servant, William
Parman, five pounds Sterling; and unto my servant, Arthur
(rascoigne, five pounds of like money ; And unto my two mayd
servants, Margerie Brook and Lettice Broughton, six pounds
Sterling, equally to be divided between them. Lastly, I doe
nominate and appoint my said dear wife. Dame Ann Alexander,
sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament^ in whom I
doe repose trust and confidence for the true performance of the
same. And I doe hereby revoke all former & other Wills and
Testaments by me hitherto made. And doe ordain this to be my
last WiU and Testament. In witness whereof, I have hereunto sett
my hand and seal, this nyne and twentieth day of March, one
thousand six hundred and thirty-seaven, before these witnesses,
W. Alexander. Sealed, published, and declared to be his last
WiU and Testament, in the presence of Robert Johnstone, William
Parman, Henry Heron."
Dame Anne Alexander, wife of Sir Walter Alex-
ander, died in 1638. In her vnU, which is dated 7th
May 1638, she bequeathed £50 for the erection of a
monument to her husband, in St Margaret's Church,
Westminster, but the structure, if ever erected, has
long since disappeared.
By his first wife, Sir Walter Alexander had no
issue. By his second wife he had two sons, Charles
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 267
and Henry, and two daughters, Lucy and Anne.
Lucy, the elder daughter, married, before 1637,
Thomas Herbert, afterwards Sir Thomas Herbert,
Bart, of Tintem, in the county of Monmouth, with
issue. Anne, the younger daughter, married, before
1645, James Devonport, Esq., with issue (Funeral
Certificate, College of Arms).
Charles Alexander, elder son of Sir Walter Alex-
ander, died unmarried before 1665. Henry Alexander,
the younger son, became cup-bearer to Charles I. His
will is dated 18th April 1645, and was proved on the
28th September 1646. By his wife Marjory, daughter
of John Noble of Midhurst, in the county of Sussex,
he had two daughters, Barbara and Lucy. The former
married Thomas Buhner, the latter Captain Edward
Harrington of Band, in the county of Lincoln, and
of the city of York (Sir Walter Alexander's Funeral
Certificate, College of Arms). Lady Jane Harrington
of Rand, and James and William Harrington, also
of Rand, and John Harrington of Kelston, Somer-
setshire, are named among adventurers for land in
Ireland in 1675 (Prendergast's Cromwellian Settle-
ment in Ireland, pp. 431, 439).
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CHAPTEK XIII.
FAMILIES OF ALEXANDER AT STIRLING.
Among the members of the Convention of Royal
Burghs, which met at St Andrews in January 1570,
are named as one of the two commissioners from
Stirling, '' Robert Alexander, merchand " (Records of
Convention of Burghs, i. 17).
In the inventory of the effects of Alexander Cun-
ningham, fifth Earl of Glencaim, prepared in 1574,
the deceased earl is described as indebted to R<)bert
Alexander, Stirling, in the sum of £133, 6s. 4d. (Three
Scottish Reformers, 9). In the General Register of
Deeds, Robert Alexander, '*" burgess of Stirling,"
appears as granting an obligation to James Nicol-
son, writer, on the 8th October 1575 (Register of
Deeds, xiv. 3136). Robert Alexander is, in a sasine
dated 25th July 1576, described as " dene of Gild "
of Stirling (Stirling Reg. of Sasines). A legal instru-
ment, dated 8th October 1576, bears that " Robert
Alexander, burgess of Stirling, compeirit personalie
in presence of the Lordis of Counsall," and ''gave in
a bond subscrivit with his hand " (Register of Deeds,
xiv.. No. 3136, 2d). In the Register of Deeds
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING, 269
(vol. xxxviii., fol. 58) is a renunciation by " Robert
Alexander, burgess of Stirling," and Katherine Moat,
his spouse, of the lands of Levilandis, which had been
wadset to them by W'" Hart of Levilands, and um-
quhile Thomas Hart, his father." Among those who
sat in a parliament held at Holyrood on the 28th
January 1593, '* Robertus Alexander, pro Striveling,"
is named. From 1592 till 1599, Robert Alexander
is included among the seven councillors chosen annu-
ally to the Dean of Guild (Stirling Guildry Records).
In 1601 he is described as owner of the lands of Win-
chelhaughe (Stirling Town Council Records). He
afterwards became insolvent. In relation to his
bankruptcy, the following narrative appears in the
Register of the Privy Seal (vol. Ixxiv. 3376) :
*' Ane letter maid to Maister William Levingstoun, servitour
to the Lord Saltoun, his airs and assignays, ane or mae of the
gift of escheit of all guidis, moveable and unmoveable, dettis,
raches, steadings, roumes, possessiones, comes, cattell, insicht
plenisching, actis, contractis, actiounes, obligatiounes, soummes
of money, jewellis, gold, silver, cunzit and uncunzeit, and utheris
guidis and geir quhatsnmever, qnhilk perteinit of before to
Robert Alschinder, burges of Strivejing, and now perteining to
our souverayne Lord, fallin and becum in his hienes handis, and
at his gift and dispositioun be reassone of escheit, throw the said
Kobert being ordinaUe dennncit rebell and put to the home be
virtue of letters of horning, raisit and execut at the instance
of Patrik Freeland, burges of Dumfermeling, cessionar and
assignay, lauchfuUie constitut be Beatrix Kinross, relict of umq*
George Freeland, son to umq* George Freeland in Alloway, and
to the Annual rent imderwritten — for nonpayment to the said
Patrik of the soumme of thirty-two pundis as of ane part of ane
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270 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
annual rent of 42 pundis. Quhilk the said Beatrix hes to be
yearlie upliftit during his Ijrftyme, &c. At Edinburgh, the nyn-
teenth of Junij, the zeir of God 1605."
On the 6th January 1588-9, Agnes Alexander,
daughter of Kobert Alexander, co-burgess of Stir-
ling, was, with her father's consent, conti*acted in
marriage with James Wilson, burgess of the said
burgh. Elizabeth Alexander, described as '' dochter
to Kobert Alexander, burgess of Stirling," was, on
the 7th June 1589, contracted to Archibald Alex-
ander of Stirling, '' brother to umq^ Alexander Al-
schunder of Menstrie" (Kirk Session BrOcords of
Stirling).
Janet Alexander is, on the 24th May 1603, de-
scribed as daughter of Kobert Alexander in a con-
veyance of property to her father and herself by
Archibald Alexander, bailie in Stirling (Stirling
Kegister of Sasines).
On the 23d May 1603, ''Robert Alschunder, in
Reddoche," was admitted a burgess of Stirling (Stir-
ling Burgh Records). He is named as a burgess in
an instrument contained in the Burgh Register of
Sasines, dated 6th March 1607. In the will of
" Catrien Alexunder, spous to Mr James Klirk, ser-
vitour to the Erie of Argyll," which was confirmed
at Stirling on the 13th February 1611, Robert Alex-
ander, burgess in Stirling, is named as one of the
witnesses (Stirling Com. Reg.). In a legal instru-
ment, dated 28th June 1610, he is mentioned along
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 271
with '* Margaret Laying, his wife" (Stirling Burgh
Register of Sasines). Having attempted merchandise
in Stirling without the sanction of the Guildry, he
involved himself in strife with that body. In 1612
he was arraigned before the Guildry for violating its
rules, and in 1615 was, on the charge of usurping its
privileges, pursued at the instance- of the procurator-
fiscal (Stirling Guildry Records).
On the 27th January 1612, William Alexander,
'' sone to Robert Alexunder in Rednoch, was received
as a neighbour burgess, and paid four lib. to the
treasurer." On the 11th January 1613, he was ad-
mitted to the liberty of malt-making within the burgh
(Stirling Town Council Records).
Bessie Alexander, second wife of Duncan Ronald,
in Pepiltreis Mount, in the sheriflfdom of Stirling, died
intestate in June 1582. Her testament-dative and
inventory were given up by her husband, her goods
being valued at 608 lib. (Edinburgh Com, Reg.).
John Alexander and his wife. Christian Archibald,
had, on the 21st April 1588, a daughter baptized,
named Aunchell, and a daughter baptized, named
Elizabeth, on the 9th March 1589 (Stirling Kirk
Session Records).
David Alexander and his wife, Christian Gray,
had, on the 31st January 1590, a son baptized, named
Robert. The witnesses were, Robert Craigengelt of
that ilk, and Robert Forrester of Boquhan (Stirling
Kirk Session Records).
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272 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Marion Alexander, "relict of umquhile Andro
Tailzeour, baxter burgess of Stirling/' died in May
1591. Her testament-dative and inventory were given
up by her son Thomas and her daughter Katherine.
Her property was valued at 332 lib. 16s. 8d. (Edinb.
Com. Eeg.).
Christopher Alexander, one of the witnesses to the
baptism of Elizabeth, daughter of Archibald Alex-
ander, in March 1590 (Stirling Baptismal Register),
was, on the 26th February 1607, admitted a burgess
and guild brother as " his father's eldest son " (Stir-
ling Burgh Records). He was the same year elected
a magistrate. In 1616 he was chosen Dean of Guild,
an office to which he was re-elected in 1616, and again
in 1621 and 1622 (Burgh and Guildry Records). In
August 1618 he was sent as commissioner to Parlia-
ment, and in the following year was appointed repre-
sentative of the town council in the Convention of
Burghs. In 1620-21, he held office as first bailie
(Burgh Records of Stirling). He died in July 1623.
The inventory of his eflFects was given up by his
widow, Katherine Livingston, his moveable property
being valued at 163 lib., irrespective of '' monies due
to him " (Stirling Com. Register).
The following minute of the town council of Stir-
ling, dated 9th March 1612, shows that Christopher
Alexander had a son Robert :
" In presence of the magistrates and council, Robert Alex-
ander, son of Christopher Alexander, being accusit of disobedi-
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 273
ence, having refused to obey the Provost, who requested him
to go out of the gate of the town to prevent a pley (quarrel) be-
tween Walter Forrester of Culmore and him ; he said he would
obey his father but not the Provost. And being charged by the
o£&cers to enter Tolbooth in ward, refused. Subscribed the
minute consenting to pay 20 lib. for his disobedience, to be em-
ployed in works of the toun, and to pay 6 lib. toties quoties if he
again offended. He had, when the Provost personally sought to
apprehend him, myntit to have drawn his sword to the Provost "
(Stirling Burgh Eecords).
Robert Alexander became a merchant-burgess in
Stirling, and attained opulence. He granted large
loans to Sir William Alexander of Menstry and his
son William. On the 24th August 1623, Sir William
Alexander and his son William granted to Robert
Alexander, described as " merchant-burgess of Stir-
ling " and their " guid freind," a bond for 4000 merks,
the cautioner being Sir Robert Gordon of Lochinvar.
The bond was registered at Edinburgh on the 26th
March 1635, by decreet of the Lords of Session, at
the instance of Agnes Alexander, second daughter
of Robert Alexander, who is described as " now de-
ceased " (Register of Deeds, vol. 484). On the same
day, a bond by Sir William Alexander to Robert
Alexander of Stirling, for £3080 Scots, was registered
at Edinburgh, at the instance of Barbara Alexander,
who is described as "eldest daughter of Robert
Alexander, merchant-burgess of Stirling, and Robert
Corser, merchant-burgess of Aberdeen, her husband "
(Register of Deeds, vol. 491).
One of the witnesses to the baptism of Elizabeth,
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274 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
daughter of John Alexander and Christian Archibald,
in March 1589, is '' John Alexander in Bannockbum "
(Stirling Baptismal Kegister). He was probably son
of James Alexander in Bannockbum, whose will is,
on the 29th July 1674, registered in the Commissary
Record of Edinburgh. He was, on the 23d January
1593, married at St Ninians to Agnes Thomson of
Stirling (Stirling Marriage Register).*
The will of John Alexander in Balquhadrok (Bal-
quhidder Rock), near Bannockbum, also that of his
wife, Margaret Smyth, are recorded in the Commis-
sariat Register of Stirlingshire. Margaret Smyth
or Alexander died in March 1633. In her will she
constitutes her husband, John Alexander, her sole
executor, making bequests to her sons John and
James, and her daughters Helen and Margaret One
of the witnesses is James Aissoim, husband of her
daughter Helen.
John Alexander in Balquhadrok, husband of Mar-
garet Smyth, died in October 1633. In his will
he nominates as executors and intromitters his chil-
dren, John, William, Margaret, and Helen, and their
respective spouses. Helen Alexander, described as
*' spouse to James Aissoune in Balquhadrok, parish
of St Ninians," died in November 1635; her goods
were valued at £489, 2s. 8d. Scottish money (Stirling
Com. Register).
* The Registers of Births and Marriages at Stirling, from 1696 to 1671, and
from 1706 to 1717, having been lost, the descent of the different families of Alex-
ander in that place cannot, daring these intervals, be traced fnlly.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 275^
Janet Alexander (sister of John Alexander in Bal-
quhidder Rock) died in September 1606. In her will,
which was confirmed on the 20th May 1608, she is
described as '* spouse to William Murray in Balquid-
der Eok, within the parochin of St Ninian." She
constitutes as her executors her husband, William
Murray, and John Alexander, her brother. To her
sister-in-law, Margaret Smyth, she bequeaths ''a
pair of rock-spun plaids and three kirtles and her
claiths, and divides her remaining ' geir ' between her
husband and brother " (Stirling Com. Eegister).
On the 29th January 1641, Robert Alexander, son
of William Alexander, maltman, was admitted a bur-
gess of Stirling. Andrew Alexander was admitted a
burgess on the 20th March 1652, on payment of the
usual fee, conjoined with the stipulation that he was
*' not to make malt without libertie " (Stirling Burgh
Records). In 1658, Robert Alexander, cordiner, was,
on account of his poverty, allowed twenty shillings
Scots weekly from the funds of the Nether Hospital.
On the 14th August 1675, Robert Alexander was pro-
vided, at the expense of the hospital, with '' ane suitt
of cloaths, ane pair of new shoes and stockings, twa
new shirts, and ane bonnett " (Town Council Records).
William Alexander, described as in Whinnes (of
Milton), was, on the 3d January 1674, entered '' neigh-
bour and maltman, for 8 lib. as neighbour and 20 lib.
as maltman, and 24 shillens for ane march stone, in
respect he married a freeman's daughter." In 1682
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276 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
and subsequent years, William Alexander, maltman,
was placed on the inquest for regulating the price of
provisions. He was, on the 9th September 1683,
appointed '^ overseer of the maltmen." He is named
as "visitor of the maltmen" from 1702 till 1705
yearly. By his wife, Elizabeth Robertson, he had a
son Charles, baptized 4th December 1674, and two
daughters, Jean, baptized January 1676, and Katha-
rine, baptized 24th December 1678 (Baptismal Regis-
ter of Stirling).
On the 11th December 1672, William Alexander
and his wife, Agnes Edmond, had a daughter bap-
tized, named Margaret.
In the Burgess Roll, commencing in 1700, ap-
pear the names of James Alexander, who entered
as *' hammerman" on the 6th August 1720, and of
James Alexander, who entered as '' merchant and
maltman " on the 12th March 1726. The latter mar-
ried Elizabeth Murray, by whom he had two sons and
foiu* daughters. William, the elder son, was baptized
23d January 1723 ; he married Janet Callander, 24th
July 1763, and had two daughters, Elizabeth, bap-
tized 24th May 1764, and Barbara, baptized 20th
January 1772.
Thomas, younger son of William Alexander and
Elizabeth Murray, was bom on the 19th December
1734. Of the daughters, Barbara was bom in 1724,
Janet in 1727, Elizabeth in 1730, and Margaret in
1733 (StirUng Baptismal Register).
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 277
On the 4th October 1736, Charles Alexander was
admitted burgess of Sth'ling as ^'a wright and
neighbour." He was, on the 9th December 1738,
married to Margaret Paterson, the marriage being
solemnised by the Kev. Ebenezer Erskine. His
family consisted of four sons and one daughter.
Charles, the eldest son, was baptized on the 16th
May 1742. Two sons, both named William, died in
infancy. William, third of the name, was baptized
on the 13th January 1749. The daughter, Margaret,
was baptized on the 7th November 1739 (Stirling
Parish Eecords).
On the 14th July 1753, William Alexander, son
of James Alexander, was received as a burgess qua
merchant. In 1755 Robert Alexander, son of James
Alexander, was entered as a burgess qua maltman.
On the 25th February 1809, James Alexander was
admitted a burgess and guild brother. Charles Alex-
ander was, in January 1812, elected a burgess qua
baker. In 1820 John Alexander was elected a bur-
gess qua maltman (Stirling Burgess Roll).
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CHAPTER XIV.
FAMILIES OF ALEXANDER IN MIDDLETON OF MENSTRY,
AND OF NEW JERSEY, UNITED STATES.
John Alexander, second son of Andrew Alexander
of Menstry, is mentioned with his brother Alexander
in a sasine of Archibald, Earl of Argyle, dated 19th
April 1541. He is also named in a sasine of Colin,
Earl of Argyle, dated 7th October 1572 (Douglas's
Peerage). He married Janet Sinclair, and died prior
to 1575 (Acts and Decrees of Coimcil and" Session).
William Alexander in Middleton of Menstry is,
in March 1611, one of the witnesses to the will of
William Alexander in Westerton of Menstry (Stir-
ling Com. Reg.). Malcolm and Alexander, sons of
William Alexander in Westerton of Menstry, re-
ceived at Stirling, on the 5th May 1663, a bond
from James Snowell, merchant, for 200 merks (Stir-
ling Register of Bonds).
Robert Alexander in Middleton of Menstry, and
his wife, Bessie Alexander, had the following chil-
dren baptized : James, in July 1702 ; John, in May
1705 ; Hugh, in February 1707 ; Adam, in January
1709 ; and George, in May 1713. Of these, James,
the eldest, styled of '' Middletown, Carse of Menstry,"
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 279
married Janet Hendrie, by whom he had five daugh-
ters—Margaret, bom 1733 ; Mary, bom 1735 ; Eliza-
beth, bom 1737 ; Jean, bom 1739 ; and Agnes, bom
1741. John Alexander, the second son, married, on
the 1st August 1738, Margaret Alexander. Hugh,
the third son, married, in December 1733, Margaret
Leishman, and had a son, Hugh, bom in 1734, and a
daughter, Margaret, bom in 1737. George Alexander,
fifth son, married, on the 9th November 1739, Mary
M'Neil, with issue, a son, Robert, bom 1748.
Hugh Alexander, son of Hugh Alexander in Mid-
dleton of Menstry, married Elizabeth Duncan, and
had a son, Peter, bom March 1773. James Alex-
ander in Middleton of Menstry, and Margaret
M'Kiall, his wife, had a son, William, baptized in
December 1711. He married Janet Davie, by whom
he had a son, George, bom 1735.
When Major William Alexander of New Jersey
sought to prove his descent from the family of Men-
stry, in order to assert his claim to the earldom of
Stirling, his law-agent, Mr Andrew Stuart, Writer
to the Signet, prepared a pedigree, indicating his
descent firom John Alexander, whom he described as
promiscuously designed *' in Middleton ** or " Gogar,"
and as uncle of the first Earl of Stirling.* According
* ''It is ascertained, from correspondence still presenred, that during these in-
vestigations (of 1759-60), and down to the yery time of his service, he (William
Akxandn-) was not resolved whether to claim descent from a brother or from a
son of the first Earl of Stirling " (Swinton's Report of Mr Humphrys Alexander's
Trial, p. v.).
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280 BiEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
to Mr Stuaxt, John Alexander " in Gogar or
Middleton," was ancestor of his client's branch. But
John Alexander "in Gogar" was not the same as
John Alexander " in Middleton ; " nor had the first
Earl of Stirling any paternal uncle named John.
John Alexander, portioner of Pitgogar, in the parish
of Muckhart, Perthshire, paternal granduncle of the
first earl, died in November 1595, leaving two sons,
William and Eobert (see supra, p. 16). <{john Alex-
ander "in Middleton" of Menstry, son of Andrew
Alexander of Menstry, great-great-grandfather of the
first earl, may have been the progenitor of the
American claimant. /By Mr Stuart, John Alexander
"in Middleton or Gogar," is described as having
a son Alexander, who rented the farm of Milnab, in
Strathearn, and had three sons — ^Alexander, David,
and Patrick. The male line of Alexander, the eldest
son, became extinct ; Patrick, the youngest son, mar-
ried, and had issue ; David, the second son, designed
" in Ward of Muthil," married, and had two sons and
two daughters. Janet, the elder daughter, married
Mr Macleish; Christian, second daughter, married
Mr Caw in Crieff*. William, the elder son, had an
only son, William, who died without issue in 1747.
James, second son of David Alexander in Ward
of Muthil, engaged in the Rebellion of 1715, and
afterwards sought refuge in America. Excelling as
a mathematician, he was appointed Surveyor-General
at New York. He was, in 1720, chosen by Governor
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 281
Bumet a member of his council. Subsequently
studying law, he acquired distinction as a pleader.
With Franklin and others he was associated in estab-
lishing the Philosophical Society of America. He
died in 1756. He married Mary, daughter of John
Sprott of Wigtown in Scotland, widow of David
Provoost, a prosperous American trader, by whom
he had one son and four daughters. Mary, the
eldest daughter, married Peter Vanbrugh Living-
stone, merchant, New York; Elizabeth, second
daughter, married John Stevens of Perth, Amboy,
New Jersey; Catherine, third daughter, married
Major Walter Rutherford; and Susannah, fourth
daughter, married General John Reid of Strathloch,
Perthshire, foimder of the chair of music in the
University of Edinburgh.*
* General John Beid of Strathloch, PerthBhire, founder oi the professorship of
mnsic at Edinburgh, was son of Alexander Robertson of Strathloch ; he changed
his patronymic on account of one of his progenitors being called Roy or Red,
from the colour of Ms hair. Entering the army in 1745, he rose to the rank of
general; he died on the 6th February 1807, at the age of eighty-fiye. Possessing
a remarkable taste for music, he bequeathed £52,000 to found a professorship of
music at Edinburgh, subject to certain provisions or liferents. Relatiye to the
settlement between his testamentary trustees and the Uniyersity of Edinburgh,
the following advertisement appeared in the public journals in June 1841 :
« Pursuant to a decree of the High Court of Chancery in England, made in a
cause Wherein the Rey. Thomas Chalmers and others are plaintiffs, and Geoige
Kinloch imd others, defendants, the children of William Alexander, late Earl of
Stirling; Peter Vanbrugh liyingstone, by his wife the sister of the said earl (in
the will of the testator, John Reid, late of Woodstock Street, Oxford Street, in
the county of Middlesex, a general in her Msjesty's army, and colonel of the 88th
Regiment of Foot, who died in the month of February 1807 mentioned), who
were living at the time; of Susannah Robertson, the sister of the said testator,
and who died on or about the Slst day of May 1888 ; an^ the legal personal
representatives of such of the said children as have since died ; and John Ruther-
ford, also named in the said will as the only son of Walter Rutherford by his
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282 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
William Alexander, only son of James Alexander
of New Jersey, was bom at New York in 1726.
After engaging in merchandise for several years, he
joined the army ; and attracting the notice of Gleneral
Shirley, the Commander-in-Chief, was appointed his
aide-de-camp and private secretary. When Greneral
Shirley was recalled to England in 1756, on the charge
of neglecting his duty, Major William Alexander
accompanied him, and bore testimony on his behalf
During his residence in Britain, he was persuaded to
assert a claim to the earldom of Stirling. Employ-
ing as his agent at Edinburgh Mr Andrew Stuart, a
well-known Writer to the Signet, that gentleman
proceeded to seek evidence in support of his claim.
But chiefly on the deposition of two old men, who
affirmed his descent from John Alexander, ''uncle
of the first earl," * a jury at Edinburgh, on the 24th
March 1759, served him heir-male of Henry, fifth
Earl of Stirling. Major Alexander now assumed the
title, and had his claim recognised by Mr William
Trumbull of East Hampstead and Mr William Phil-
lips Lee of Binfield, nephews of the fifth earl, who
entered into n^otiations with him respecting their
supposed rights to the territories in America, granted
wife, who was another sister of the said earl, if living, or his l^gal personal
representatives, if he should be dead — are^ on or before the 4th day of Jane 1841,
to come in before William Broagham, Esq., one of the masters of the said Gonrt,
at his chambers in Southampton Buildings, Chancery Lane, London, and make
out their claims, or in default thereof they will be excluded the benefit of tiie said
decree."
• See supra, p. 27d.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 283
to the first earL They subscribed a legal contract,
by which they agreed to accept one-half the proceeds
of these territories, the other half to belong to Major
Alexander as Earl of Stirling.
Finding that the formal service of a jury at Edin-
burgh was insufficient to establish his right to the
peerage, Major William Alexander presented a me-
morial to the king, praying for recognition of his
honours. The memorial was, in the autumn of 1759,
remitted to the House of Lords. On the 10th March
1762, the Lords' Committee of Privileges resolved
that he had not established his claim ; and fmrther,
that he *'be ordered not to presume to take upon
himself the said title, honour, and dignity, until
his claim shall have been allowed in due course of
law" (Journals of the House of Lords, xxx. 186).
Prior to the promulgation of this order. Major Alex-
ander returned to America ; and though he did not
further seek, by l^al means, to obtain the recog-
nition of his title, he continued to assume it, and
made at least one attempt to assert his right to cer-
tain lands granted by the Council of Plymouth to the
first earL Having advertised for sale or lease two
large tracts of land, Francis Bernard, Esq., Gk>vemor
of Massachusetts, issued at Boston, on the 7th Sep-
tember 1768, a proclamation, declaring the intention
of Gk>vernment to protect the said lands, of which
one is described as *' situated on the east side of
Penobscot river," and the other as situate '4n the
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284 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
eastern parts of this province, extending from St
Croix to Pemaquid ** (Tumbull's Report of Mr
Humphrys Alexander's Trial, p. 5).
Residing at New York, Major Alexander was an
active promoter of Columbia College, of which he
became a governor. He was appointed Surveyor-
General of New York, and a member of the Council
of New Jersey. When a rupture between America
and the mother country seemed imminent, he, in
September 1775, accepted the colonelcy of a militia
regiment, and was afterwards transferred to the com-
mand of two regiments of troops raised in New Jersey.
In January 1776 he evinced military dexterity by cap-
turing, with a small force, in the Bay of New York, a
British transport of 300 tons. In March he obtained
the chief command at New York, and proceeded to
fortify the city and harbour. At the battle of Long
Island, fought on the 27th August, he was taken
prisoner by the British, but he regained his liberty
by an exchange. As major-general, he was sub-
sequently engaged in the battles of Brandywine,
Germantown, and Monmouth, the last fought on the
28th June 1778. He died at Albany, in the state of
New York, on the 15th January 1783, aged fifty-
seven. By his wife Sarah, eldest daughter of Philip
Livingston, of the state of New York, he had two
daughters — Mary and Catherine. Mary married
Eobert Watts, Esq., by whom she had a son, John,
who practised as a physician in New York ; Catherine
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MEMOBIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 286
married Colonel William Duer, and had a son, Wil-
liam Alexander Duer, LL.D., who published, in an
octavo volume, the ''Memoirs" of his maternal
grandfather.*
* The Life of William Alexander, Earl of Stirling, with Selectione from his
Correspondence, by his grandson, William Alexander Duer, LL.D. New Jersey
Historical Society, 1847, 8yo.
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CHAPTER XV.
FAMILIES OF ALEXANDER OF WESTERTON OF MENSTRY,
MAINS OF MENSTRY, VILLAGE OF MENSTRY, BURN-
STONES OF MENSTRY, INCLONEY, LONGCARSE OF
BLAIRLOGIE, MYRESIDE OF MENSTRY, LOGIE, BLAIR-
LOGIE, WEST CAMBUS, TULLIBODY, OVER GOGAR,
ALVA, TILLICOULTRY, BALHARTY, DOLLAR, AND
ALLOA.
William Alexander in Westerton of Menstiy died in
March 1611. He executed his will on the 1st March
1611, in presence of Andrew Alexander in Stirling,
Thomas Alexander in Wester Tillicoultry, William
Alexander in Middleton of Menstry, and others. As
his executors, he named Sir William Alexander of
Menstry, his landlord, Mr Andrew Alexander, and
his wife, Marion Murray, with Thomas Alexander in
Easter Tillicoultry, and William Alexander, as over-
seers. The ^' summa of his free gear amounted to
£742 Scots." Among his debtors were Sir William
Alexander, of whom he held an obligation for 1000
merks (Stirling Com. Reg.).
iHew Alexander in Mains of Menstry died in 1651.
His inventory, given up by his sons, Robert and
William, showed that Malcolm Alexander in Menstry
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 287
was indebted to him in the sum of £666, 13s. 4d.
Scots (Stirling Com. Reg.).
On the 23d August 1729, James Alexander, tenant
in Mains of Menstry, received a disposition of the
lands of Mains of Menstry from John Burn, and on
the 19th November 1735 granted a disposition of the
same to Alexander Abercromby of Tullibody (Lord
Abercromby's Charter Chest). He married, in March
1717, Isobel, second daughter of William Alexander
in Manor Neuk, who brought him a dowry of 500
merks Scota He died on the 20th November 1767,
aged about eighty-six ; his wife died 27th May 1779,
aged about eighty-eight They left children (Family
Papers).
William Alexander, feuar in the village of Menstry,
married, 13th January 1677, Margaret Paton, of the
parish of Alva (Alva Parish Register). They had a
son William, baptized 16th August 1693 (Logie
Parish Register).
William Alexander and his wife, Margaret Mit-
chell, had three sons — ^William, bom 1730; Archi-
bald, 1733; and John, 1751. Archibald married
Mary Johnston, March 1760. John Alexander, de-
scribed as feuar in Menstry, married, October 1786,
Helen Bum (Logie Parish Register).
Hugh Alexander in Menstry and his wife, Janet
Reid, had baptized, on the 25th March 1682, a
daughter Margaret, who, on the 24th December
1716, married William Ramsay in Alva (Alva Parish
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288 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Register). By his wife, Janet Reid, Hugh Alexander
had, in July 1691, a son Hugh, and in October 1692, a
son Walter (Logie Parish Register).
James Alexander in Menstry and his wife, Janet
Jamieson, had, in September 1692, a daughter Jean ;
in June 1695, a son William ; and in March 1698, a
daughter Elizabeth (Logie Parish Register).
William Alexander in Bumstones of Menstry had,
by his second wife, Janet Meason, two sons — William,
bom April 1698 ; and John, born 1712. William
Alexander in Bumstones of Menstry married, 1st
January 1765, Janet Drummond, by whom he had a
son John, bom 1772.
In March 1779, James Alexander in Menstry and
Margaret Paton were married. John Alexander in
Menstry and Alice Downie were married in June
1781.
Robert Alexander in Incloney had, by his first
wife, Anna Mitchell, a son William, bom 1694 ; and
by his second wife, Agnes Westwood, five sons —
Thomas, bom 1704 ; Robert, bom 1709 ; James,
bom 1710; John, bom 1712; and Robert, bom
1716.
Thomas Alexander and his wife, Mary Leggat, had
four sons — ^William, bom 1724 ; John, 1729 ; Thomas,
August 1732; and James, August 1735. William,
their eldest son, married, in January 1755, Margaret
Tumer, and had a daughter Isabel, bom 1757. John
Alexander, the second son, became tenant in Longcarse
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 289
of Blairlogie. He married, in 1758, Mary Harrower,
and had two sons — John, bom April 1760; and
James, born May 1768.
In March 1799, Thomas Alexander in Longcarse
married Margaret Clerk. They had a son, Thomas,
bom 1812, and a son, William, born 1816. William,
the younger son, now resides at Longcarse.
In July 1814, William Alexander of Longcarse
had a son, Thomas.
James Alexander, fourth son of Thomas Alexander,
became tenant in Myreside of Menstry. He married
Margaret Peters, and had two daughters — ^Mary,
bom 1779 ; and Margaret, bom 1783 (Logic Parish
Register).
James Alexander in Logie, and his wife, Isobel
Rae, had a son, John, bom December 1747. He
married, in 1773, Catherine Paterson.
William Alexander, son of Thomas Alexander in
Logie, married, in 1749, Helen Burn. They had two
sons — ^William, bom 1752; and James, bom 1757
(Logie Parish Register).
William Alexander, described as *' in Whinfauld of
Blairlogie," married, in 1794, Margaret Cree, and had
four sons — John, bom 1796 ; William, 1800 ; James,
1805 ; and Ebenezer, 1807 (Logie Parish Register).
James Alexander married, in 1785, Margaret Kin-
rosa
William Alexander in Logie married Jean Thom-
son, 1761, and had a son, William, bom 1763.
T
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290 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
John Alexander in Menstry married Elizabeth
Taylor, and had a son, John, bom 1761.
John Alexander in "West Cambus and Margaret
Leishman were married in 1790, and had two sons —
William, bom 1792 ; and John, bom 1796.
On the 10th February 1670, Patrick Menteith was
served heir to his sister Agnes, spouse of Walter
Alexander in Orchard of Tullibody (Reg. Mag. Sig.,
xxix. 288).
In May 1793, Peter Alexander in Blairlogie and
Margaret M'Lauchlin were married. They had four
sons — Hugh, bom 1795 ; James, 1796 ; John, 1800 ;
and James Spittal, bom 1803. In September 1809
Andrew Alexander in Blairlogie, and Elizabeth Gallo-
way, his wife, had a son, James, baptized (Logie
Parish Register).
Malcolm Alexander of Over Gk)gar, in the parish
of Logie, is mentioned, as one of his debtors, in the
will of Hew Alexander, Mains of Menstry, who
died in 1651 (Stirling Commissariat Register). Mal-
colm Alexander died in April 1670. His inventory,
including a debt of 12 lib., due to him by "Alexander
Alexander in Tulliecutrie " and others, amounted to
308 lib. 7s. 4d. Among his debtors were : Malcolm,
son to William Alexander in Menstry, 100 lib. ;
James Alexander in Alva, 125 lib. ; Helen Alex-
ander, 8 Ub.
In his will, dated 21st April 1670, he nominates
Rachel Graham, his spouse, his only executrix, and
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 291
William Alexander in Menstry, eldest lawful son of
his first marriage, and Archibald Graham, brother of
his wife, as tutors to John, Andrew, and Malcolm
Alexander, his sons by his second marriage. " John
Alexander in Powis " subscribes the will as a witness
(Dunblane Com, Eeg.).
On the 6th April 1686, at Stirling, Malcolm Alex-
ander, third son of the deceased Malcolm Alexander
in Over Gogar, was served heir to Andrew Alexander,
his immediately younger brother (Eeg. Mag. Sig.,
vol. xxxix., 9).
John Alexander in Alva was married in November
1697.
Walter Alexander in Alva married Agnes, daughter
of John Adam in Corspatrick, and sister of Isabel,
who married William Alexander in Manor Neuk of
Menstry. He was father of four sons — James,
Andrew, John, and William. James, the eldest son,
married, in December 1703, Marion, daughter of the
late Eobert Miller in Clackmannan. Andrew, second
son, married, in August 1700, Ellen Moses. John,
the third son, married, 28th October 1705, Mary
Dawson. William, the fourth son, married 28th
November 1707, Bessie Moses.
Among the descendants of these four .sons of
Walter Alexander, were John, who married Jean
Alexander in December 1730; James, who married
Helen Marshall in 1739; Andrew, who married
Elizabeth Cairns in 1748; Andrew, who married
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292 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Janet Demperston in 1743; William, who married
Marion Marshall in 1748 ; John, who married Janet
Vicars in January 1766 ; William, who married Mar-
garet Paton in 1769; Andrew, who married Anne
Johnstone in 1778 ; and William, who married Jane
Mitchell in 1819 (Alva Parish Eegister).
On the 11th December 1610, Thomas Alexander in
Easter Tillicoultry obtained from James, Lord C!ol-
vill of Culross, a charter of the sixth of the town and
lands of Wester Tillicoultry, called Comtown; a sixth
part of the arable land on the front of the hill of Tilli-
coultry, with the right of pasture of one hundred
sheep on the said hill (Reg. Mag. Sig., lib. xlvii., 258).
Thomas Alexander of Tillicoultry is mentioned in the
will of William Alexander of Westerton of Menstry.
He died in 1635. His will was in that year confirmed
at Dunblane by his wife, Euphane Lambert, and
their son, William. At the time of his decease he
had belonging to him goods valued at 773 lib. 16s. 8d.
Scots, "by and atour the guidis and gear in the
prior confirmed Testament-dative, granted to Andro
Alexander in Stirling, assignaye maid and constitute
be ane noble earl, William, Earl of Stirling, creditor
to the said defimct " (Dunblane Commissariat Regis-
ter, 12th September 1635).
William Alexander, son of the preceding, resided
in Millhouse of Tillicoultry. He married Elizabeth
Blaw. At the baptism of his Son Charles, on the
13th September 1642, Charles Alexander, son of the
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 293
Earl of Stirling, was present as a witness. He died
on the eth May 1651 (Tillicoultry Parish Eegister).
William Alexander is mentioned in connection with
lands at Tillicoultry in the " Taxations of the Coimty
of Clackmanna^;' vol. iii., Nov. 23, 1621-1624. The
Earl of Argyle is described as indebted to him in 500
merks. He died 14th March 1643.
Alexander Alexander, portioner of Tillicoultry, is
named in a bond dated 1661 (Stirling Eegister of
Bonds). He is mentioned as one of his debtors, in
the will of Malcolm Alexander of Over Gogar,
executed on the 26th January 1672 (Dimblane Com-
missariat Eegister).
Malcolm Alexander of Tillicoultry, and his wife,
Isobel Alexander, had, on the 3d March 1661, a
daughter baptized, called Isobel (Tillicoultry Parish
Eegister), On the SOth May 1656, Isobel Alexander
in Tillicoultry obtained service as heir to John Alex-
ander, her father's brother (Eeg. Mag. Sig., xxiv. 3).
James Alexander in Alva had a son, James, bap-
tized on the 15th February 1658, and a son, John,
on the 25th March 1670 (Alva Parish Eegister).
Thomas Alexander in the parish of Tillicoultry,
described as " tenant in Bents," married, 5th March
1748, Christian Sharp, and on the 1st April 1764 had
a daughter, Janet (Clackmannan Parish Eegister).
In the Parish Eegister of Tillicoultry is named, on
the 28th November 1641, "James Alexander, por-
tioner of Balharty."
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294 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. j
Adam Alexander in Easter Bank of Dollar died
in April 1610 ; he executed his will on the 10th day
of that month, in presence of William Alexander and
other witnesses. His '' free gear amounted to £480,
13s. 4d. Scots." He appointed William Alexander as
tutor and overseer to his children, Adam, William,
and Janet. Andrew Alexander, '*bruther to the
guidman of Menstrie," became cautioner in the con-
firmation (Stirling C!om. Reg., voL L).
James Alexander of the parish of Alloa was married
on the 20th July 1613. Robert Alexander, styled
" son to umq^ John Alexander in Cuik-hill," Alloa, and
Isobel Chrystie, daughter to umq^ Andrew Chrystie
in Alloa, were married on the 5th September 1615.
In May 1636, James Alexander, styled "in Wood-
head of Alloa," and his wife, Bessie Sands, had a son,
Alexander, baptized. Alexander Alexander, wright
in Alloa, is named in the years 1691 and 1693 in the
Regality Book of Alloa, vol. i.
John Alexander of the parish of Alloa and Mar-
garet Anderson, his wife, had, in October 1636, a
daughter baptized Janet.
John Alexander, a native of Alloa, graduated in
the University of St Andrews on the 27th July 1661.
Obtaining licence to preach from the Bishop of Edin-
burgh in May 1666, he was, on the 16th January
1668, ordained minister of Criech, Sutherlandshire.
In 1682 he was translated to the parish of Kildrummy,
Aberdeenshire. For joining in the Earl of Mar's i
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 295
rebellion of 1715, and praying for the Chevalier St
George, he was, on the 3d April 1717, deprived of
his ministerial office. He died in August 1717, aged
about seventy-six (Fasti Eccl. Scot).
John Alexander, son of the minister of Kil-
drummy, was appointed minister of the Scottish Epis-
copal church at Alloa. On the 9th August 1743 he
was consecrated Bishop of Dunkeld. He erected a
chapel for Episcopal worship at Alloa, which he
bequeathed to his successors. He died at Alloa on
the 24th April 1776, at the age of eighty-two. A
monumental tablet in the Episcopal church of Alloa
conunemorates his virtues (Fasti Eccl. Scot. ; Keith's
Scottish Bishops ; New Stat. Ace. of Alloa).
In December 1650 was bom, William, son of Wil-
liam Alexander in Alloa and his wife Margaret Short.
In February 1660, James Alexander in Alloa mar-
ried Janet Faimeford in the parish of Clackmannan
(Alloa Parish Eegister).
John Alexander, maltman in Alloa, is named in
the Book of the Regality in 1684.
In September 1688, Malcolm Alexander in Alloa
and Marjory Bruce of Clackmannan were married
(Clackmannan Parish Register).
On the 22d December 1686, Alexander Alexander
in Alloa and Margaret Walker of Clackmannan were
married at Prestonpans (Clackmannan Parish Regis-
ter). This family settled at Prestonpans. Thomas
Alexander, C.B., Director-General of the Medical
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296 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Department of the British Army, was bom at Pres-
tonpans on the 6th May 1812, and died 1st February
1860. He is commemorated by a monument in his
native village. His father, William Alexander, salt
manufacturer in Prestonpans, died on the 26th Feb-
ruary 1865, aged seventy-nine.
Malcolm Alexander, third son of Malcolm Alex-
ander in Over Gogar, became a trader in Alloa. He
is mentioned in the Book of Regality of Alloa in
1685 and 1693 (Book of Regality, vol i.). He mar-
ried, in September 1673, Janet Marshall in Alloa,
and had a son, Thomas, born October 1692.
John Alexander was, on the 12th November 1718,
served heir to his father, John Alexander, meal dealer,
in a portion of ground at Alloa. On the 6th De-
cember 1743, Malcolm Alexander, merchant in Alloa,
son of Malcolm Alexander in Garienoch of Menstry,
was served heir to his brother Andrew, who died heir
of conquest in 750 merks over the lands of Gogar
(Decennial Indexes to Services of Heirs).
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CHAPTEE XVI.
FAMILIES OF ALEXANDER OF CLACKMANNAN AND
KINCARDINE-ON-FORTH.
In the parish register of Clackmannan the family
name of Alexander first appears under the following
entry: ''March 16th, 1634. — John Alexander and
Margaret Anderson, both in this parish, proclaimed."
The banns of marriage of a John Alexander in the
parish of Clackmannan, and of Bessie Henrysone in
the parish of Alloa, were proclaimed on the 5th
April 1646 (Clackmannan Parish Eegister). They
had a son, John, bom in May 1649 (Alloa Parish
Registw).
George Alexander in Clackmannan married, 24th
December 1691, Elizabeth Mitchell, by whom he had
three sons — ^William, bom 1705 ; Robert, bom 1708 ;
and Alexander, bom 1712. William married Janet
Davie, and had a son, William, bom 1728.
William Alexander, afterwards described as of
'* the Green of Clackmannan," with his wife, Mar-
garet Beveridge, had, on the 10th January 1640, a
son baptized, named William. William Alexander
died in August 1664. His testament-dative was
given up on the 19th August 1664 by Archibald and
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298 MEMORIAL OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
William Alexander, "his sons and only executors."
He is described as "mnquhill William Alexander
in Greene of Clackmannan, who deceased in August
instant." His movable estate is valued at £106
Scots (Stirling Com. Reg.).
Archibald, elder son of William Alexander and
Margaret Beveridge, married Catherine Graham, and
was father of a son, David, bom in 1676, and two
daughters — Janet, bom in 1670, and Catherine, bom
in 1673 (Clacknuoman Parish Reg.).
William Alexander, second son of William Alex-
ander and Margaret Beveridge, married Janet Peat,
and had a son, Francis, bom May 1674. Francis
Alexander married Marion Thomson, and had a son,
Charles, bom in January 1704.
William Alexander of Ferrieton* and Janet Younger,
both of the parish of Clackmannan, were, on the 13th
July 1638, proclaimed in order to marriage. Of this
marriage were bom a son, William, and five daughters
— Katherine, bom 1640 ; Eupham, bom 1641 ; Eliza-
beth, bom 1644; Magdaline, bom 1646; and Mar-
garet, bom subsequent to 1647.t
* On the 7th Augnst 1629, William Coustoun and Mai^garet Alexander had their
daughter Catherine baptized, William Alexander in Ferrieton being present as a
witness. The baptism of their son William, 6th October 1631, was mtnessed by
Edward Bruce, of the family of Brace of Kennet ; and on the 14th September 1645,
their son Harie was baptized in presence of Harie Brace, younger of Clackman-
nan, and Mr Robert Bruce of Kennet. Mai^garet Alexandw was sister of William
Alexander in Ferrieton^ and her husband, William Coostoxm, was probably a son
of Robert Coustoun in Menstry, mentioned in the will of William Alexander in
Westerton of Menstry, who died in 1611.
t There is a blank in the baptismal record of Clackmannan from 1647 to
1666.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 299
William, the elder or only son, was baptized on the
12th February 1642, in presence of Mr Eobert Bruce
of Kennet.* He married Isabel Younger, by whom
he had a son, David, bom in 1677, and a daughter,
Jean, bom in 1679. He died in 1687, and his remains
were deposited in the parochial churchyard, where an
altar tombstone bears his initials and those of his
wife, accompanied by the following rhyme :
*' AU ye that passing yiew
This monnment of mine.
Before to dust ye turn,
Repent and monm in time. "
In the inventory of his eflFects, Robert Bruce of Ken-
net is named as owing him £100 (Stirling Com. Reg.).
In July 1674, Andrew Alexander,! of the parish of
Logie, married, first, Margaret, daughter of William
Alexander in Ferrieton. Of this marriage were born
four sons — ^William, bom 1676 ; Hugh, January 1678 ;
John, July 1684; and George, March 1687; also,
two daughters — Janet, bom June 1675; and Mag-
daline, bom October 1681. Andrew Alexander mar-
ried, secondly, 8th April 1689, Mary Ferguson, by
whom he had a daughter, Margaret, bom January
1690, and a son, James, bom April 1691.
Magdaline, second daughter of Andrew Alexander,
married, 28th November 1700, Robert Ramsay of
* Ancestor of the present Lord Balfour of Burleigh.
t Andrew Alexander was second son of John Alexander in Manor Neuk, parish
of Logie (see pedigree of the family of Alexander of Manor Neuk). As "Andrew
Alexander in Logye," he is in the Burgh Records of Stirling named as an assessor
on the annual inquest or commission for fixing the market price of victuals in
the burgh and neighbourhood.
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300 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
the parish of Clackmannan. William, the eldest
son, married, 25th April 1707, Janet Drummond,
and had a son, Hugh, bom June 1708, and a daugh-
ter, Janet, bom October 1709 (Clackmannan Parish
Register).
John, second son of Andrew Alexander by Mar-
garet Alexander, his first wife, married, first, on the
29th July 1720, Margaret Gray of the parish of Airth ;
and secondly, on the 25th August 1735, Janet Gal-
braith. By his first marriage he had two sons —
James, bom September 1724 ; and Alexander, bom
December 1729 ; a daughter, Margaret, bom 1727,
who died in infancy, and two daughters, twins, Mar-
garet and Christian, bom 1732. By his second mar-
riage he had four sons — ^William, bom May 1739;
John, bom 1740; Robert, bom 1742; and Charles,
a twin, bom 1746 (Charles settled at Charleston in
America) ; also, three daughters — ^Anne, bom 1736 ;
Janet, bom 1738 ; and Jean, a twin, bom 1746.
James, eldest son of John Alexander by Margaret
Gray, his first wife, rented the farm of Broadcarse,
in the parish of Clackmannan. He married, first,
13th December 1754, Mary M'Vey, and secondly,
Helen White. He died in 1802. He had four sons
— ^Alexander, born October 1756; John, bom July
1758 ; Thomas, bom May 1768 ; and James, bora
March 1773; also, three daughters — Mary, bom
March 1762 ; Margaret, bom April 1764 ; and Lilias,
bom April 1766.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EAKL OF STIRLING. 301
James, the youngest son, married Margaret Morris,
and had a son, born 20th April 1787.
Alexander Alexander, eldest son of James Alex-
ander, tenant in Broadcarse, by his first wife, Mary
M'Vey, succeeded his father in the lease of that farm.
He married Katherine Morrison, who died 13th June
1798. He died 28th August 1832. He had five sons
— James, born 10th January 1783; John, bom 5th
August 1784 ; John, bom 18th October 1788 ; Alex-
ander, bom 3d December 1792 ; and Ebenezer, bom
16th April 1797; also three daughters — Jean, bom
12th May 1786 ; Mary, born 21st July 1790 ; and
Katherine, bom 19th March 1798. The sons of
Alexander Alexander and Katherine Morrison died
without issue, with the exception of Alexander, the
fourth son.
Alexander Alexander, son of Alexander Alexander,
tenant in Broadcarse, was bom 2d December 1792.
He became a shipowner in Kincardine-on-Forth, and
there resided till his death, which took place on the
11th September 1874. He married, 18th January
1825, Anne, daughter of Charles Jameson, shipowner,
Kincardine (bom 29th March 1796), and by her had
three sons and three daughters. Janet, the eldest
daughter, bom 2d February 1828, married her cousin,
Robert Rintoul, merchant, Glasgow ; Catherine, bom
14th March 1834, and Anne, bom 8th November 1836,
are both unmarried. Alexander, the eldest son, bom
17th October 1825, and Ebenezer, the third son, bom
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302 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
6th February 1832, are umnarfied. Charles Jameson^
the second son, bom 6th May 1830, is an extensive
manufacturer at Hawick, and owner of the Jawcraig
collieries, Stirlingshire. He married, 19th June 1860,
Bethia, daughter of William Scott, Esq., by whom he
has had six sons — Alexander, William Scott, Charles
Jameson, Ebenezer, Walter Scott, and Alfred George ;
and one daughter, Anne Jameson.
The family tombstone in the parish churchyard of
Clackmannan contains, besides the initials of William
Alexander in Ferrieton, and Janet Younger, formerly
quoted, the initials of John Alexander, bom in 1684,
and his two wives, Margaret Gray and Janet Gal-
braith ; the initials of James Alexander, first tenant
in Broadcarse, and his first wife, Mary M*Vey ; and
the initials of Alexander Alexander, tenant in Broad-
carse, and of his wife, Katherine Morrison,
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CHAPTEE XVII.
FAMILY OF ALEXANDER OF MANOR NEUK AND WESTERTON,
BRIDGE OF ALLAN.
John Alexander '' in Manor Neuk," parish of Logie,
Stirlingshire, died before the 15th March 1683, as
appears from his son William's contract of marriage,
dated on that day. He had two sons, William and
Andrew, and a daughter, Jean. Andrew Alexander,
the second son, married Margaret, daughter of Wil-
liam Alexander in Ferrieton, and became ancestor
of the family of Alexander of Clackmannan and
Kincardine - on - Forth. He is a witness to the
marriage-contract of his brother William, dated 16th
March 1683, in which he is styled his "brother-
german."
Jean, daughter of John Alexander in Manor Neuk,
married William Mercer (or Marshall), " at the New
Mylne of Tullibodie." Their contract is dated 23d
October 1686. On the 17th December following she
granted a discharge to her brother William for her
dowry of 200 merks Scots. She survived her hus-
band, and, as his widow, granted on the 4th January
1721 an assignation to her brother William, whom
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304 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
failing, to his son James, of a bond by Malcolm Alex-
ander, feuar in Alloa.
William Alexander, eldest son of John Alexander
of Manor Neuk, married, first, in March 1683, Isobel,
daughter of John Adam in Corspatrick (Marriage-
Contract); and secondly, in February 1718, Elizabeth
Campbell (Marriage-Contract). On the 30th January
1721, he made a disposition mortis causa in favour of
his youngest son, James Alexander. Elizabeth Camp-
bell survived her husband, and married, secondly,
John Stalker at Calseyhead, with whose consent she,
on the 20th November 1722, granted a discharge to
James Alexander, merchant in Stirling, son of her
late husband.
William Alexander of Manor Neuk had two sons,
John and James, and four daughters, Helen, Isobel,
Margaret, and Catherine. Helen, the eldest daughter,
married, in November 1709, George Mercer, at New
Mylne of Tullibody (Marriage-Contract). She died
before the 3d December 1718, when her husband was
about to enter on a second marriage. They had an
only child, Isobel Mercer; she received from her father
a bond of 700 merks Scots, dated 3d December 1718,
in which he mentions her mother as "a kind and
beautiful woman."
Isobel, second daughter of William Alexander,
married James Alexander in Mains of Menstry (Con-
tract dated 19th March 1717). Her dowry was
500 merks. James Alexander died on the 20th
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 305
November 1767, about his eighty-sixth year. Isobel
Alexander died 27th May 1779, aged about eighty-
eight years. They left children.
Margaret, third daughter of William Alexander in
Manor Neuk, married James Taylor, in West Cam-
bus. On the 6th November 1724, they granted a
discharge to James Alexander for 300 merks.
Catherine, fourth daughter of William Alexander
in Manor Neuk, married John Kidston in Craigton.
She died before the 8th May 1721, leaving a daughter,
Catherine Kidston, wife of John Dickson in West
Grange.
John, elder son of William Alexander in Manor
Neuk, received from his father an assignation, dated
8th September 1718, to half of his crops and other
substance, '' in order to his livelihood and sensible mar-
riage." He married, first, in 1719, Elizabeth Camp-
bell, and, secondly, about 1735, Agnes Forman. He
was father of five sons — William, bom 1720 ; John,
bom 1727 ; James, bom 1737 ; WiUiam, bora 1739 ;
and John, bom 1742; also, six daughters — Janet,
bom 1722; Isobel, bom 1724; Helen, bom 1729;
Marion, bom 1732; Jean, born 1736; and Agnes,
bom 1740.
John, second son of John Alexander in Manor
Neuk, succeeded his father in the lease of that farm,
and on the 21st January 1766, married Lilias Men-
teith.
James, second son of William Alexander in Manor
u
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306 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Neuk, was born in November 1694. On the 11th
October 1718, he granted to his father a discharge
for all sums of money falling to him through the
decease of his mother, Isobel Adam. On the 30th
January 1721, his father having previously provided
for his other children, settled all his property on
him under certain restrictions and provisions (Family
Papers). On the 12th May 1722, he was admitted a
burgess of Stirling, "qua guildbrother " (Guildry
Records of Stirling). On the 3d March 1733, he is
in the Burgh Records of Stirling named as town
treasurer. He was elected Dean of Guild in 1734.
He subsequently held oflBce as a magistrate. He
married, first, Elizabeth, daughter of James Gib,
merchant, Stirling (Contract dated 9th June 1722),
who died on the 8th April 1742; he married,
secondly, on the 28th April 1743, Sarah, eldest
daughter of Rev. Archibald Hamilton, minister of
the first charge of Stirling. He died 5th November
1754, having issue by his first marriage, five sons —
James, William, John, Robert, and Thomas; and
seven daughters — Mary, Isobel, Elizabeth (1st),
Elizabeth (2d), Jean, Margaret, and Janet.
Mary, eldest daughter of Bailie James Alexander
of Stirling, was baptized 18th August 1723. She
married, December 1757, George Munro, Canongate,
Edinburgh. Isobel, second daughter, bom 16th
March 1725, died unmarried. Elizabeth (1st), born
17th November 1726, died in childhood. Elizabeth
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 307
(2d) married, in December 1766, Eobert Melville,
Stirling; and, secondly. Bailie Adam of the same
place. Jean, fifth daughter, bom 30th April 1737,
married Provost Edmond* of Stirling, and had a
son John, bom 26th December 1773, and two daugh-
ters — Elizabeth, born December 1774; and Agnes,
bom 9th November 1775.
Margaret, sixth daughter of Bailie James Alex-
ander, bom 31st March 1738, married James Adam,
and died 24th February 1832. Janet, youngest
daughter of Bailie Alexander, born 5th April 1740,
married, before the 27th October 1762, John Craw-
ford, CanonmiUs, Edinburgh.
William, second son of Bailie James Alexander,
bom 18th February 1730, was an oflScer in the Cus-
toms. John, third son, bom 7th July 1731, was
purser of the ''Monarch." He died before the 31st
March 1789, when his brother James was served his
"heir-general" (Index of Services). Robert, fourth
son, bom 6th March 1734, settled in Stirling and be-
came a magistrate of the burgh. Thomas, fifth son,
was bom on the 27th October 1735.
* In his "History of Stirlingshire," Sir Robert Sibbald relates an anecdote in
relation to an ancestor of Provost £dmond. Some time in the^ latter half of the
sixteenth century, the son of a baker in Stirling, named Edmond, a boy of ten,
pilfered a small coin from the collection-plate at the door of the High Church.
Afraid of detection, he left the place, and for many years was unheard of. He
had proceeded to the Continent, where he became a recruit in the army of Maurice,
Prince of Orange. In the course of time he attained the' rank of colonel, and
having amassed a fortune, quitted the army and returned to Stirling. He now
publicly acknowledged his offence, and by way of compensation, built a manse
for the minister of the High Church.
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308 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
James, eldest son of Bailie James Alexander of
Stirling, was bom 20th June 1728. He became a
merchant in the burgh, and on the 31st August 1760
was entered on the burgess-roll (Town Council Re-
cords of Stirling). He was Provost of Stirling in
1770, in which year he was elected Commissioner to
the Convention of Burghs. In the minute of his
election he is described as '' a man fearing Gk>d, of
the true Protestant religion publicly professed and
authorised by the laws of the kingdom, without sus-
picion to the contrary, expert of the common afiairs
of the burgh, merchant, gildbrother, and inhabitant
within the said burgh, bearing all portable charges
with his neighbours, bearing a part of the public
burdens, and who can tine and win in all these
aflFairs."
In 1775 Provost Alexander entered into a private
contract with two other members of the Town Coun-
cil to secure to themselves the entire management
of the burgh during their several lives, and for that
purpose to influence the elections annually in order
to secure as members of Council those who would
give them unqualified support. A copy of this
contract having been discovered by some unfriendly
persons, an action was brought against the provost
in the Court of Session, which, among other conse-
quences, led to the disfranchisement of the burgh.
The burgh was not restored to its privileges for
several years.
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 309
Provost Alexander married, in February 1764,
Euphan Mayne, relict of James Henderson of West-
erton, in the parish of Logie. She died 19th October
1811. Provost Alexander died on the 4th February
1805. He had two sons — James, bom 23d August
1765, who died 4th January 1796 ; and Edward, bom
22d May 1767.
Edward Alexander some time engaged in merchan-
dise at Stirling. He was entered on the burgess-roll
19th June 1793 (Town Council Kecords of Staling).
In 1807 he purchased the estate of Powis, in the
parish of Logie, for £26,500. On the 18th August
1795, he married Jenny Colquhoun, who died 20th
January 1796. He married, secondly, on 25th Octo-
ber 1802, Catherine, daughter of John Glas, Esq.,
Provost of Stirling, descended from the ancient family
of Glas of Sauchie; she died in 1865. Edward
Alexander of Powis died 13th September 1835, aged
sixty-eight. By his second wife, Catherine Glas, he
had two sons and three daughters.
Euphemia Mayne, eldest daughter of Edward Alex-
ander of Powis, was bom 8th December 1807, and
died 21st February 1823. Mary Bryce, second daugh-
ter, bom 8th November 1809, married James Colqu-
houn, Esq., barrister-at-law, now of Berlin, Canada
West. Catherine Glas, third daughter, bom 13th
August 1814, married John Macarthur Moir, Esq. of
Milton ; he died 14th December 1871.
John, second son of Edward Alexander of Powis,
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310 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
was bom 12th April 1806. In October 1822 he
succeeded to the estate of Westerton, Bridge of
Allan, on the death of his relative, Dr John Hender-
son, when he assumed the name of Henderson. He
joined the army as comet in the 4th Light Dragoons
in 1824, and retired in 1844 a major in the Kifle
Brigade. He afterwards served as an oflftcer in the
Stirlingshire Militia. He died unmarried on the 24th
April 1858.
James Edward Alexander, eldest son of Edward
Alexander, was bom on the 16th October 1803.
After studying at the universities of Edinburgh and
Glasgow, he proceeded to India, on the recommenda-
tion of his relative. Sir Thomas Munro, then Governor
of Madras. He served in the Madras Light Cavalry,
and after passing an examination in Oriental lan-
guages, was appointed adjutant of the Governor's
Body Guard. He was afterwards transferred to
H.M. 13th Light Dragoons, and proceeded to the
Burman war in 1825. On the restoration of peace,
he became an attach^ of the Persian Mission of Sir
John Macdonald Eanneir, and took part with the*
Persian army against the Russians. Declining a
professorship at the College of Heylebury, and join-
ing the senior department of the Military CoUege, he
received a certificate of the first class, and was pro-
moted to a lieutenancy in the 16th Lancers. Finishing
his military studies, he joined the Royal Engineers at
Chatham, under Sir Charles Paisley, and proceeded to
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 311
Russia to act with the army of Field-Marshal Diebitch
against the Turks. On his return to the Crimea in
a Eussian frigate in which the plague appeared, he
was placed in quarantine at Sebastopol. Suspected
of being an emissary of the British Grovemment, he
was confined two months in Sebastopol along with
other prisoners, and finally sent to St Petersburg.
Obtaining liberation, he returned to England by
Sweden and Denmark, and was promoted as captain
unattached. He was next employed by the Colonial
Office. From the Under Secretary of State he re-
ceived letters to various governors in North and
South America and the West Indies, and reporting
the state of slavery previous to emancipation, was
examined before a committee of the House of Lords.
He now joined the 42d Regiment, and soon afterwards
was invited by the Geographical Society to under-
take an expedition to explore the interior of South
Africa. To gain geographical knowledge of some
parts of Africa, he went to Portugal, and joining the
Queen's aimy against Don Miguel, was made a
lieut-colonel by the Emperor Don Pedro; he then
proceeded round the west coast of Africa, in H.M.S.
*' Thelia," visiting nine settlements. Arrived at the
Cape, war was commencing with the Caflfres; the
time was unfavourable for exploration, and he joined
the troops of Sir Benjamin D'Urban in the field, and
became his aide-de-camp. After the war of 1835 he
proceeded into the interior, explored and reported on
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312 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
the countries of the great Namaquas, Boshmans, and
Hill Damaras, and discovered the Orange River.
On arriving in England he was knighted for his ser-
vices. As captain in the 14th Regiment, he next
served in America. There he undertook the arduous
duty of survejring for a military road through the
forests of New Brunswick and Canada, from Quebec
to Halifax. Having served several years as aide-de-
camp to Sir Benjamin D'Urban and Sir William
Rowan, successively commanders-in-chief in British
North America, he joined a depot battalion in Ireland.
Having raised the second battalion of the 14th
Regiment, he proceeded therewith to New Zealand
to engage in the Maori war. Under Sir Duncan
Cameron, he commanded the outposts of the Waikato.
Sir James Alexander has published " Travels from
India to England, by way of Burmah, Persia, and
Turkey," " Excursions in Western Africa," '' Sketches
in Portugal," '' Transatlantic Sketches," '' L'Aoadie ;
or. Seven Years' Explorations in North America,"
" Canada as it is, and may be," '' Passages in the Life
of a Soldier," " Travels through Russia and the
Crimea," '' Incidents of the Maori War," and '' Bush-
fighting in New Zealand." He has also edited a
Life of the Duke of Wellington, " Salmon Fishing in
Canada," and other works, and executed several
important translations. Sir James succeeded to the
estate of Westerton in 1858, on the death of his
brother. He is a major-general in the army, and
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 313
a Knight-Commander of the Lion and Sun and of
St John of Jerusalem. He holds the military order
of the Bath ; also the Turkish order of the Med-
jidie. By his wife, Eveline Marie, daughter of Lieut. -
Colonel Charles Comwallis Michell, K.H., K.B.A.,
Surveyor-General, Cape of Good Hope, and mater-
nally descended from the French family of D'Aragon
of Touronne, he has four sons ; also one daughter,
who died in infancy. Edward Mayne Alexander,
younger of Westerton, the eldest son, is lieutenant
of the 78th Highlanders; Ranald MicheU, second
son, is captain of the Royal Perth Rifles; Herbert
Rowan, third son, is lieutenant 21st R. N. B. Fusi-
liers ; the fourth son, Gerald D'Aragon, is a student
of Cheltenham College.
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CHAPTER XVIII.
FAMILIES OF ALEXANDER OF DRUMELDRIE, SKEDDOWAY,
INNERGELLIE, ANSTRUTHER, AND PITTENWEEM,
FIFESHIRE.
On the lands of the church, prior to the Reforma-
tion, settled a class of persons who, from being re-
lated to the clergy, or from having invested capital
in the improvement of the soil, were permitted to
occupy their farms on easy terms, and by a sort of
perpetual tenure. At the dissolution of the religious
houses, these having derived to their holdings a «ort
of prescriptive right, were allowed to obtain perman-
ent possession on moderate payments. They became
known as lairds or '' portioners.**
Members of the family of Alexander of Menstry
seemed to have acquired the position of kindly
tenants (as the class were termed) on church lands
in Fifeshire. Of these, the first whose name appears
on record is George Alexander, whose will, recorded
in the Commissariat Register of Edinburgh, is dated
29th March 1577. His successor as " portioner " of
Drumeldrie was Thomas Alexander, who is men-
tioned in the General Register of Deeds on the 16th
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING, 315
March 1590 (vol xxxv. 260). He married Isabel
Balfour, who died in 1613 ; and, secondly, Katherine
Hay, who survived him. By his first marriage he
had a son William, who married Alison Orrock, and
by whom he had three sons — ^Thomas, William, and
John. William Alexander was survived by his wife,
who married, secondly. Captain Walter Cockbum of
Johnstone Mills, Fifeshire (Lament's Diary ; Register
of Deeds, vol. 491).
Thomas, eldest son of William Alexander, is, in the
renunciation of an annual rent of £500 to Mr Alex-
ander Gibson, Clerk of Session, dated 30th November
1635, described as " oy and air of umquhil Thomas
Alexander, portioner of Drumeldrie," his "guidschir,"
consent being indicated by Katherine Hay, relict of
the latter (Register of Deeds, voL 491).
Thomas Alexander succeeded as portioner of Dru-
meldrie. He married, first, Margaret Auchmutie,
who died before 1636, and had by her Thomas, bom
in 1633 ; Lyston ; and a daughter, Isobel, who mar-
ried, 7th January 1659, Alexander Clarke of Pitteu-
char, parish of Kinglassie, Fifeshire (Lament's Diaiy).
By his second marriage he had three sons — John,
David, and James — and a daughter — Anne.
Anne Alexander was bom in 1642 ; she married,
on the 2d September 1664, the Eev. George Stirling,
minister of Baldemock, in the county of Dumbarton.
*' They were maried," writes John Lament, " by Mr
John Afleck, minister of Newbume, privately in the
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316 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
evening, without publicke proclamation, be vertue of
a warrand from St Androus, from Mr Andro Hinni-
man, Bishope of Orkenay, being, for that tyme, still
Arch-deane of St Androus, and in Mr Sharpe, Arch-
bishope, his absence " (Lamont's Diary ; Fasti Eccl.
Scot, vol. ii, p. 339).
Thomas Alexander married, thirdly, in 1646, Mar-
garet Brown, who died in 1654. Of this marriage
were bom three sons — Gilbert, baptized 4th June
1650; y baptized 21st June 1651; and David,
baptized 17th August 1654 (Kinglassie Parish Blis-
ter). Thomas Alexander succeeded to the estate of
Skeddoway, in Kinglassie parish (probably on the
death of Alexander Alexander) in 1649, and removed
thither in October of that year (Lament's Diary).
Thomas Alexander, eldest son of Thomas Alex-
ander of Drumeldrie and Skeddoway, married, 2d
September 1658, Jean, daughter of the late David
Colville, son of Lord Colville of Ochiltree, receiving
with her a dowry of 6000 merks (Lament's Diary).
They had two sons — John, bom 1669, and Robert,
bom 1670 — and three daughters — Margaret, bom
1663, Agnes, bom 1664, and Jean, bom 1665 (King-
lassie Parish Reg.). Drumeldrie was sold in 1672, by
Thomas Alexander, elder and younger (Wood's East
Neuk). Thomas Alexander the elder died prior to
Febraary 1684.
John, son of Thomas Alexander of Drumeldrie
and Skeddoway by his second marriage, bom 1637,
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 317
was a Writer to the Signet at EdinburgL He mar-
ried, first, 16th December 1658, Agnes Anderson;
secondly, on the 24th April 1662, Jean Amot, by
whom he had four sons — John, bom 1663, died in
infancy; John, bom in March 1665; David, born
August 1668 ; and Eobert, bom February 1673 ; also
two daughters — ^Anna, bom April 1667, and Cathe-
rine, bom November 1670.
James Alexander, youngest son of Thomas Alex-
ander of Drumeldrie and Skeddoway, became a regent
in the University of St Andrews. He married, about
the year 1668, Rachel, daughter of David Aytoun of
Kinaldie. According to Lamont, Andrew Aytoun, a
Lord of Session, by the title of Lord Kinglassie, died
on the 25th March 1670 ; and, having no children of
his own, bequeathed his estate of Kinglassie to Mr
James Alexander, ''his lady's sister's son," and his
brother's second daughter (Lamont's Diary). James
Alexander of Kinglassie was father of two sons —
Andrew, bom July 1680, and James, bom June 1686
— and five daughters — ^Rachel, bom May 1669, Helen,
bom July 1671, Jane, bom May 1673, Margaret,
bom August 1675, and Anna, bom April 1683 (King-
lassie Parish Reg.).
David Alexander, second son of Thomas Alexander
of Drumeldrie by his second marriage, was an advo-
cate in Edinburgh. He died unmarried in 1689 ; and
on the 21st November of that year, the three surviv-
ing daughters of James Alexander of Kinglassie —
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318 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Helen, Janet, and Margaret — ^were served heirs-por-
tioners of his estate. In the Register of Sasines they
are styled ''Alexanders alias Aytouns " (General "Reg.
of Sasines, xli. 1).
William Alexander, second son of Thomas Alex-
ander of Drumeldrie, became portioner of Boarhills,
in the parish of St Andrews. He is mentioned on
the 15th February 1649, in ''An Act of the Estates,
for putting the kingdom in a posture of defence '*
(Acta Pari. Scot., vol vi., p. 376). In 1649 he sold
his lands of Boarhills to Aytoun of Kinaldie. John
Lamont writes : " He came and dwelt at St Androus,
where his wyfe was a litell distracted, bot afterwards
recovered." According to the same authority, when
his eldest brother, Thomas, left Drumeldrie for Sked-
doway, in October 1649, he proceeded to the former
place, to take charge of cultivating the estate. He
was killed by an accident (a cart-wheel passing over
his breast), on the 23d December 1652 (Lamont's
Diary). His wife, Janet, daughter of Robert Aytoun
of Inchdaimie, died in 1663. He had a son, John,
baptized 17th May 1640 (Kinglassie Parish Roister),
and other three sons — David, James, and Andrew.
Predeceased by his four sons, William Alexander
was succeeded in certain lands by his father's third
son, John Alexander, minister of Cults (Gen. Reg. of
Sasines, voL xxi.. No. 132). John Alexander studied
at the University of St Andrews, where he graduated
in 1632. He was ordained minister of Cults in 1643,
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 319
and was translated to Creich in 1654. He conformed
to episcopacy, and died unmarried in February 1684.
aged about seventy-two. He left the aim or half-
year's stipend, due subsequent to his decease, to Gil-
bert Alexander, eldest son of his elder brother by his
third marriage ; but the Lords of Session found, 18th
March 1686, that it could not be disposed of by will,
but belonged to his sister as nearest of kin (Fasti
Eccl. Scot, vol., ii., pp. 482, 484).
A member of the House of Drumeldrie, Kobert
Alexander '' in Montfleurie," parish of Scoonie, exe-
cuted his testamentary settlement on the 23d Janu-
ary 1583. Among the witnesses are William Dud-
ingston, apparent of St Ford, and Richard Carmichael
of Edemy, and other persons of position and sub-*
stance (Edinburgh Com. Reg., voL xxxii.).
Robert Alexander, maltman in Anstruther, died in
May 1577. In his will, he left ''his bodie to be
buriet in the kirkyaird of Kilrynnie," and bequeathed
"his entire substance to Elspeth Lummesden his
spous," whom he nominated, along with '' John Alex-
ander his sone, his undoubted executouris" (Com.
Reg. of Edinburgh, vol. v.).
John Alexander, "maltman in Anstruther," son
of the preceding, died on the 12th January 1589.
The Inventory of his goods, "made and given up
be William and Agnes Alexanderis, his lauchful
baimes," was valued, with the debts, at £397,
14s. 4d. Scots. The Lairds of Anstruther and
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320 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Balfour are named as his creditors (Edin. Com.
Reg., vol. xxi.).
Alexander Alexander, described in his testament-
dative as " in Inergellie, within the parochin of Kil-
rynny," died on the 28th October 1698. In his will,
which was executed the day preceding his decease,
he appointed, as his executors, " Johnne Alexander,
William, David, and Jennett Alexanders, his baimis."
The summa of his inventory was £570 Scots.
Among his creditors are named William Lundie of
that ilk and Robert Betoun of Balfour (Edin. Com.
Reg., vol. xxxii.).
In the Register of the Great Seal, under date 24th
November 1609, is recorded a charter in favour of
Katherine Alexander or Spens, m the city of St
Andrews (Reg. Great Seal Book, xlvi.. No. 136).
Katherine Alexander was probably sister of Alex-
ander Alexander of Innergellie, in the parish of
Kilrenny. The family of Spens owned the estate of
Wormeston in the adjacent parish of CraiL
Janet Alexander, only daughter of Alexander Alex-
ander in Innergellie, married John Balmanno, mer-
chant-citizen of St Andrews ; her will is dated 16th
February 1618 (Com. Reg. of St Andrews).
On the 10th January 1622, John Alexander,
described as " indweller in Innergellie," and Elspeth
Barclay, his spouse, obtained sasine of '' a tenement
and yard in the burgh of Kilrynnie " (Gen. Reg. of
Sasines, vol. ix., fol. 248).
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 321
John Alexander, styled ^'burges of Anstruther,"
executed his will on the 13th July 1618 (Com, Reg,
of St Andrews). He left a son, George, who, by a
contract, dated at London and Anstruther on the
19th and 30th March 1628, disponed to Robert
Alexander, his father's brother, for the sum of 2000
merks, ''an annual rent of 26 bolls bear fiurth of the
lands of Innergellie, to which the said Mr George
had right by contract between the late William
Barclay of Innergellie and Margaret Borthwick, his
spouse, on the one part, and the said late John Alex-
ander and Barboure, his spouse, on the other,
with their children, by which the said annual rent
was disponed to the latter, in security of 2000 merks
— under reversion" (Register of Deeds, voL 477).
Robert Alexander, burgess of Pittenweem, had a
son, William (Register of Deeds, vol. 492). William
Alexander became a burgess of Anstruther ; he had
fomr sons, John, Robert, David, and James, and a
daughter, Christina (Special Retoinrs ; Reg. of Deeds,
vol 492),
In the parish chinrchyard of Anstruther Easter, a
tombstone, having inscribed on one side the arms of
the House of Alexander, commemorates on the other
William Alexander, probably a descendant of Alex-
ander Alexander in Innergellie, in the following
inscription:
" Hie jacet honestusvir Gulielmus Alexander, quondam ballivus
burgi de Anstnither, qui obiit 15 Januarii 1640, aetatis suae 38."
X
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322 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Another tombstone, in the same churchyard, com-
memorates, by a Latiij inscription, Isobel Alexander,
wife of William Black, bailie of Anstruther, who died
19th February 1640, aged fifty-one.
John Alexander, probably elder son of William
Alexander, described as *'of Anstruther Easter,"
married, first, on the 12th August 1652, Bessie
Darling of South Leith ; and secondly, Janet
Ramsay of South Leith (Parish Register of South
Leith).
Robert Alexander, a merchant in Anstruther
Easter, was chosen one of the magistrates and
commissioners for the burgh in Parliament Throu^
the influence of Sir William Alexander of Menstry,
he procured, in 1630, a letter from Charles L
to the Privy (Council, proposing the erection of a
general fishery. The letter was laid before a Par-
liament, which met at Holyrood in July 1630, and
the subject was referred to a commission. Of that
commission Robert Alexander was a member. In
the following November, negotiations were entered
upon with the English commissioners anent the erect-
ing of a common fishery ; and on the 7th September
1632, a royal charter was granted, constituting a
large number of persons '' first and present Fellows
of the Community of the Fishery Society of Great
Britain and Ireland." Among these are the names
of ''William, Viscount of Stiriing," ''Robert Alex-
ander," and " David Alexander" (Acta Pari. Scot).
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 323
David Alexander, named as one of the Fellows of
the Fishery Society, was younger brother of Robert.
In letters of reprisal granted by Charles I. under the
Great Seal, on the 20th April 1626, he is styled
''Captain David Alexander, master of a ship of
Anstruther called the ' James.' " By these letters he
was empowered, " on account of injuries done to the
King of England by the King of Spain, to arm and
fit out his ship, and go to sea, and pursue, attack,
and sink all ships of Spain, as well under the rule
of the Infant Isabella in Western Flanders as any
others " (Reg. Mag. Sig., lib. ii.. No. 360, fol. 249).
On the 22d July 1626, as '^ owner of the gude ship
called the 'James' of Anstruther," Captain David
Alexander granted a disposition in favour of Sir John
Scot of Scotstarvet, Director of the Chancery, " for
the sixteenth part of the said ship." For his share
of that ship, and of another. Sir John Scot paid
Captain Alexander the sum of £1437, 10s. Scots
(Eegister of Deeds, vol. 506).
On the 2d April 1627, the following royal letter to
the Exchequer indicates the further employment of
Captain David Alexander in the public service :
" To THE EXCHEQUEK.
"Right, &c. Whereas upon good considerations wee were
pleased of a long tyme by past to sign a signature in favour of
ane David Alexander, for being our Chieflfe Work Maister for
fortifications within that o* kingdome, who (as wee are crediblie
informed) hath been stayed here upon employments of the like
nature by o* right trustie the Duke of Buckingham, therefore
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324 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
our pleasure is that you cause expede the said signature with
all diligence, according to the tenure thereof.
« Whythall, the 2d day of ApriU 1627 " (Register of Letters).
David Alexander enjoyed a continuance of the
royal favour. The following letter of Charles I. to
the Scottish Privy Council is dated at Whitehall,
3d January 1627 :
" To THE COUNSELL.
" Right, &c. We are pleased, for certain reasons known unto
us. That the Shipp laden with ore taken by Captain Alexander
should be restrained till our further pleasure were known ; but
hearing from you that she is claimed by the Hollanders as
belonging unto them, it is not our will that our neighbouring
States, and cheeflie our friends and confederates should want the
benefit of speedie justice within anie of o' kingdomes. And as
wee highlie approve and comend the courage and endeavours of
such of o' subjects as by warrants hath gone against the common
ennemie, desyring that they may enjoye all the lawfull benefits of
theire labours, and have all encouragement for prosecuting of
theire comendable course that can be convenientUe afforded unto
them. So wee desire not that anie thing should be done to the
prejudice of other States against the lawes of Nations, and usuall
course of Justice, for doeing whereof we will give order to our
Admirall or his deputie, having power from us, with the assist-
ance of such commissioners as we appoint ; but, in the mean-
time, that the Hollanders, who are our special! friends, may have
justice with diligence. Our pleasure is, that learning from such
of the Commissioners for the prises as can be had put what hath
been done by their former trjrall, you judge and determine
whether the said Flemish shipp be a lawfull prize or not, what
conduct money should have been payed to the said Captaine, or
what you find any way in reason fit to be done with her. That
neither the said Strangers nor the said Captaine may have just
cause to complain as being defrauded of their due, The doeing
whereof we remitt to y' consideration."
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 326
Under favour of Lord Stirling, David Alexander
was in 1633 recommended by Charles I. to the King
of Poland for military service. On the 3d October
of that year, the king addressed a letter to his royal
brother, certifying that David Alexander was skilful
in using military engines, and had been successfully
employed in various miUtary expeditions (Register of
Letters).
On the 4th February 1634, a commission was
granted by ''Alexander, Earl of Linlithgow, Vice-
Admiral of Scotland and the Isles thereof, to Robert
and Captain David Alexander, bmrgesses of Anstruther,
deputes of the said Admiraltie, within the bounds of
Fife, on the east side of the water of Leven," giving
them power to '' repledge and reduce from all other
deputes on the north of the water of Forth, and from
all other judges, spiritual or temporal, all persons
called or pursued before them, except such persons
as shall be called or pursued before the said vice-
admiral or his deputes in the courts to be held at
Edinburgh or Leith, or other parts, by the said
earl or his principal depute" (Gen, Reg. of Deeds,
voL 471).
The brothers, Robert and David Alexander, re-
tained a con^icuous position in the eastern district
of Fifeshire. On the 4th March 1642, Captain
David Alexander was served heir to James Alexander,
burgess of Anstruther, his younger brother (General
Retours, xvi. 196). As a royalist captain, David
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326 MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING.
Alexander was, along with "David Achmontie, in
Drumeldrie/' captured by Cromwell's soldiers, when,
on the 7th August 1661, they despoiled the burgh of
Anstruther (Lamont's Diary).
Robert Alexander received a bond for £120 fix)m
John Tweedie of Drumelzear on the 7th June 1633
(Gen. Reg. of Deeds, vol. 474). On the 6th September
1634, he granted an obligation to Christian Alexander,
his sister, "for all she might claim under the will of their
father, William Alexander, burgess of Anstruther "
(Register of Deeds, vol. 492). He was, on the 24th
March 1637, served heir of his grandfather, Robert
Alexander, in two acres of land, within the burgh of
Pittenweem (Special Retours, Fife, xv. 172).
As a magistrate of Anstruther Easter, Robert Alex-
ander took a prominent part in securing the erec-
tion of a parish church, which was effected in 1636
(Burgh Records). He is mentioned in the Act for
putting the kingdom in a posture of defence, dated 18th
April 1648. In an Act, passed for the same purpose,
on the 26th August 1643, Captain (David) Alexander
of Anstruther Easter is named (Acta ParL Scot.).
Robert Alexander married Christina, a younger
daughter of Sir John Anstruther of Anstruther, who
was by James VI. appointed Hereditary Grand Carver
for Scotland. The house occupied by Robert Alex-
ander and his wife, situated in the High Street of
Anstruther, still remains, displaying on the front wall
a triangular stone, sculptured with two shields, bearing
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MEMORIALS OF THE EARL OF STIRLING. 327
the arms of the husband and wife, with a monogram
of their names, and the date 1631.
A widow, grand-daughter of Hugh Alexander, a
joiner in Edinburgh, resides in Anstruther Easter.
Hugh Alexander privately asserted a claim to the
earldom of Stirling.
ENI) OF VOLUME L
M*Farlcme <t- Erskine, PrinUrs, Edinburgh,
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